Celebrate National Farmers Market Week: Support Local Farmers and Eat Healthier
Weekends are for Farmers Markets! 🌾
This week is actually National Farmers Market Week, celebrated from August 6-12!
Supporting your local farmers and shopping small not only helps your community thrive, but also helps you create more nutrient-dense and bioavailable meals for your loved ones.
Not all tomatoes are created equal, and not all meat is created equal. What you buy at a farmers market is likely much healthier because it’s coming straight from the field, to the farmer, to you.
I have a little story for you. Recently, we were at a farmers market in the mountains (as seen in the picture). My dad asked the farmer, “Did you grow these mangoes?” He said, “No, I bought them at the store.” This was at a farmers market, even! 😂
While the story is funny, it represents a significant problem with our food industry today. We often have no idea where the food is sourced from, how it’s grown, or how it got to us. Even a farmer can say, “Here, enjoy our fresh produce,” but the produce at the table is just from the store. That’s why it’s important to take health into your own hands and ask educated and informed questions.
Here are five simple things to consider when choosing better produce and meats:
1. Grass-fed meat: Look for meat from animals that have been fed a natural diet of grass. This results in healthier, more flavorful meat that is higher in essential nutrients and omega-3 fatty acids.
2. Pasture-raised meat: Animals that roam freely in pastures tend to be healthier and provide more nutrient-dense meat. They have access to a more varied diet and natural behaviors, leading to better quality meat.
3. Pasture-raised eggs: These eggs come from hens that have access to the outdoors and a natural diet. They are typically higher in vitamins and omega-3 fatty acids compared to conventionally raised eggs.
4. Natural environment: Ensure that the animals are raised in environments that mimic their natural habitats. This applies to livestock, poultry, and even bees. Happy, healthy bees create better honey that’s more nutrient-dense.
5. Quality of produce: Look for produce that is fresh and seasonal. Seasonal produce is picked at the peak of ripeness, which means better flavor and more nutrients.
Here are five questions you can ask the farmer next time you’re at the farmers market:
Did you grow all this yourself? 😂
What type of pesticides do you use?
What do you feed your animals?
Are your products organic or non-GMO?
How do you ensure the quality and freshness of your produce?
Taking a holistic, natural approach to cooking with real foods starts with making informed choices at the farmers market. By asking these questions, you not only gain valuable information about your food but also support sustainable and ethical farming practices.
Why National Farmers Market Week Matters
National Farmers Market Week is a great opportunity to celebrate the benefits of farmers markets and the vital role they play in our communities. Farmers markets offer a direct connection between consumers and farmers, fostering transparency and trust in the food system. They also contribute to the local economy by keeping money within the community and supporting small-scale farmers.
The Environmental Impact
Buying locally reduces the carbon footprint associated with transporting food over long distances. It also encourages sustainable farming practices that preserve soil health and biodiversity. By choosing to shop at farmers markets, you are making a positive impact on the environment and promoting a more sustainable food system.
The Social Aspect
Farmers markets are also about community. They provide a space where people can connect, share recipes, and learn about where their food comes from. It’s a social event as much as it is a shopping trip. You get to meet the people who grow your food and learn about their farming practices, which can be an educational experience for both adults and children.
How to Get Involved
During National Farmers Market Week, many markets will host special events, workshops, and activities. Check out your local farmers market to see what they have planned. It’s a great time to explore new vendors, try fresh seasonal produce, and engage with your community.
By supporting farmers markets, you’re contributing to a healthier, more sustainable, and more connected community. So, let’s celebrate National Farmers Market Week by visiting our local markets and making informed, health-conscious choices. Happy shopping!