Why You Should "Go Local"

I recently visited a large farmers’ market 15 minutes from my home that I did not even know was there. I was in awe of the size. This place was larger than two major chain stores put together. When I visited the stalls, I found interesting items I had never seen before. Not only was I shopping, but I was learning as well. The farmers were more than happy to tell me about their goods and even share some recipe ideas with me. The variety was amazing: produce, spices, fish, eggs, meat all fresh, all at my fingertips. Everything was seasonal which meant it was not genetically modified and was not shipped from the other side of the world. There were no long lines and no crowds at all. This led me to wonder…do people even know this exists?

In doing my research I found that while farmers’ markets have experienced a recent uptick in popularity nationwide, there is still such a small percentage of goods purchased from local farmers markets versus major grocery chains. I believe the major reasons for this are convenience, exposure, and cost. Grocery stores are more convenient as they can be spotted on every corner while for most people farmers markets require a little bit of an extra drive. Are they worth the extra gas? The short answer is, definitely! The quality of the products sold at farmers markets is superior. The goods come directly from the farm to the market. They do not take a long trip from far away as is the case with grocery stores. This is good news! Less preservatives! I also have found that many cities have temporary farmers market stands that might be closer and more convenient. These are usually multipurpose spaces like a park or a large lot that is only a farmer’s market on certain days of the month. There is one hosted in my community every Wednesday.

Farmers’ markets do not get as much exposure as the chains because they have less commercials and billboards. Most of us grew up in the grocery store so that is what we are accustomed to, but with just a little research into your local farmers’ markets you can learn about a valuable gem that might change your life.

The last issue to address is the cost. Many people that I have spoken with believe that shopping at a farmers’ market will break the bank. This is a myth. Most organic items are less expensive at the farmers market because you cut out the middleman.

In short, you don’t have to break up with your favorite grocery chain forever, but there are too many benefits to not at least give them a try!