By Caitlin Porter, Seacoast Eat Local Intern
1. Fresh produce that is in season
Produce that is in season has better flavor, as well as more nutrition. Farmers’ markets carry a wide variety of fruits and vegetables that are at their peak ripeness.
2. Varieties not at the grocery store
Certain types of fruits and vegetables that you see at that farmers’ market aren’t always on the grocery store shelves. Expand your horizons!
3. Farmers have great tips on how to prepare
Farmers’ often have great recipes and ideas on how to prepare vegetables that may seem unfamiliar.
4. Use your SNAP benefits!
With the acceptance of EBT cards, now everyone can appreciate what the market has to offer. With our Market Match program, as well as Close the Gap starting this week on the 24th, we help make the market cost effective.
5. Fresh produce is high in antioxidants
Antioxidants are your body’s defense against cancer and damage. Local fruits and vegetables have higher levels since they are much more fresh.
6. High variety of fruits and vegetables
Different colors and types of produce means a wide variety of vitamins and minerals to support a healthy diet.
7. Fun family activity
People of all ages love to stroll around the farmers’ market. It is a great way to get outside and spend some time with the family.
8. Eco-friendly
Local food means less shipping and packaging waste, using commercial rubbish removal service will help protect our environment.
9. Support local farmers
Local farmers often only receive a very small percentage of the cost as profit. By shopping directly from the farmers you improve the profit to keep local farms alive.
10. Better animal treatment
Meat, eggs, and milk at the market come from farms where the animals are allowed to roam freely, fed the highest quality diet, and given a much better life than the companies that mass produce these products
Sources:
Cuesa’s 10 reasons to support farmers markets
Nutrition.gov farmers markets
USDA farmers markets
Mother Earth Living top 1o