Farmers markets offer more than just a chance to stock up on fresh produce, they provide shoppers with access to seasonal foods, locally made products, and unique items that often can’t be found in traditional grocery stores. Whether you’re browsing for flavorful tomatoes, fresh herbs, local honey, or artisan baked goods, a visit to the farmers market can be a great way to discover the best flavors of the season.
🍅Let’s Shop!
While not everything is a better deal at a farmers market, some products consistently stand out for their quality, uniqueness, and value. Check out these items that chefs frequently buy at local markets that could be worth adding to your shopping basket, according to marthastewart.com.
Wild Mushrooms
Figs
Eggs
Honey
Heirloom Tomatoes
Peppers
Radishes
Lettuce and Leafy Greens
If you shop at farmers markets, what do you buy most often? Let me know in the comment section below!
🧺Mistakes to Avoid
Shopping at a farmers market can be much more enjoyable than navigating the aisles of a supermarket. But are there any common mistakes shoppers should avoid? Here are some suggestions from marthastewart.com to help you make the most of your visit.
Don’t Buy Refrigerated Products First – Pick up these types of products before you’re ready to leave.
Don’t Forget the Shopping Bags – It’s best to bring your own bags since some vendors may not provide them.
Always Bring Cash – Cash may be the only payment method accepted.
Resist Overbuying – Fresh produce doesn’t last forever, don’t buy more than you need.
Don’t Damage the Produce – Avoid creating waste or damaging produce by breaking off unwanted pieces or squeezing fruits and vegetables excessively to check for ripeness.
Don’t Assume Everything Is Organic or Local – Different farmers markets have different rules.
đź›’For NCP Panel Members
Most of the items you purchase at a farmers market will not have a barcode. To report those purchases, go to the Non-Barcoded Items list in the NCPMobile app, select the appropriate category and product from the list, and enter the details. If you use NCP’s handheld scanner, please refer to the Barcode Reference Booklet. If any of the items you purchase have a UPC barcode, please scan the barcode.
The next time you stroll through a farmers market, think beyond filling your shopping bag. It’s an opportunity to discover what’s in season, connect with local producers, and enjoy foods at their freshest. By knowing which products offer the best quality and value, you can shop smarter, eat better, and make the most of one of summer’s favorite traditions. You may even discover a new favorite item along the way!
Regards,
Taylor
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From Hive to Table: Honey Basics
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Here in California, the land of fruits and nuts, there are 4 different farmer’s markets weekly. i buy my honey from a local beekeeper and fresh produce from local farmers. The atmosphere is great. Friendly folks and good prices. Plus it is a blessing to help support my local friends and neighbor farmers. And there are also food vendor trucks where I can purchase authentic Mexican food and crafts from the areas craftspeople. All goes to a good cause- local friends and neighbors.
I love buying corn from the farmers market local corn is organic. I buy enough to balance and freeze for winter, I also buy extra large tomatoes make sauce and eat fresh slices.
We very seldom have events here. I don’t buy newspapers so knowing when an open food market is happening, it is usually very early, so I miss out on some produce.
Other markets are 30-40 miles from home and I’m not able to drive that far.
Maybe I need to see if they can send flyers to the public?! I really wish.
I like the farmers market but I like the Armish Market better. They’ve more organic items(nearly all).
Where is the Armish Market, Cedric? Is it like the navish market? they carry amazing Navy beans.
I love all your suggestions, I love the farmers market and all the fresh products. All taste so great and nice to have to put in the freezer