Appetite for Knowledge

Visiting a farmers market can be a pleasant experience! Shopping at a farmers market is an easy way to obtain and eat locally-grown, fresh produce or foods. Shopping at the farmers market is a different experience than going to a supermarket. To make your trip a success, follow these tips:

Before You Go:

1. Research Markets: Look up local farmer’s markets in your area to check their operating hours and days. Many farmers markets will connect with their digital community using a Facebook page, e-mail listserv, newsletter, or website. They’ll often post what vendors are attending the farmers market. Many vendors provide pre-orders for a quick, grab-and-go pickup.
2. Bring Bags: Bring bags or a tote to carry your purchases. Some markets or vendors may not provide bags, or they may charge for them. A backpack can make hauling items easier. If you live far away or have other errands, consider a cooler to keep items cold.
3. Carry Cash: While many vendors may accept cards or mobile payments. Bringing cash in small denominations is a good idea, especially if you plan to make smaller purchases.
4. Consider Weather: Wear a hat and sunglasses along with sturdy shoes! And don’t forget to wear sunscreen!
5. Shop Seasonally: Many edible crops can be grown in Wyoming. Seasonal produce in your area of Wyoming will vary by growing conditions and weather.
6. Meal Planning: Think about your meal planning needs so you can come home with veggies, fruits, meat, dairy, and snacks that you can use for a week. Trying new foods is part of the fun of going to farmer’s markets.

During Your Visit:

1. Arrive Early: For the best selection, arrive when the market opens. The best items tend to be bought first; some may even sell out before the end of the market.
2. Explore and Tour: Get a sense of what is available. Stroll through the market and explore the various booths. Farmers markets often offer various fruits, vegetables, herbs, baked goods, food products, locally raised meat, dairy, beverages, arts and crafts, and more.
3. Interact with Vendors: Familiarize yourself with the vendors. Initiate conversations with the merchants. They can provide valuable insights into their products. In addition, ask the vendor about the process before handling their merchandise. Some vendors want customers to bag their items and bring them to where they collect payment, while others prefer to gather what customers want.
4. Sample: Many vendors offer product samples. Take advantage of this opportunity to sample different items and discover new favorites.
5. Purchases: Purchase sturdy items first, such as root vegetables or corn. Leave the top of the bag for more delicate items like fruit, tomatoes, lettuce, and herbs. Purchase items that must be refrigerated, such as eggs, dairy, and meat, last.
6. Build Relationships: Become a regular customer. Get to know the vendors. Relationships make the shopping experience feel more personal.
7. Ask Questions: Don’t hesitate to ask questions about the food or products. Where was this grown, did you grow or raise it, how it’s grown, what sprays/pesticides/herbicides do you use, when was it picked, is the beef grass-fed, how should I prepare and store this, and any other food safety concerns you may want to know about.
8. Support Local: Buying from farmer’s markets supports local farmers and small businesses in your community. It’s a great way to get fresh, seasonal produce while contributing to the local economy.

Only buy what you will use in the coming week. If you’re worried about using all the fresh produce, try some new recipes or learn the art of preserving food. Freezing, canning, and drying are just some ways to preserve the seasonal flavors you find at the farmers market for later in the year.

After Your Visit:

1. Enjoy Your Purchases: Once you’re home, savor the fresh flavors of your farmer’s market food finds. Incorporate them into your meals throughout the week. Keep preparations simple and let the produce shine.
2. Store Properly: Properly store fruits and vegetables to maintain their freshness. Some items may need refrigeration, while others can be kept at room temperature.
3. Plan Your Next Visit: Farmers markets often have rotating vendors and seasonal offerings, so plan to visit again to discover new treasures.

Written by Vicki Hayman, MS, University of Wyoming Extension Nutrition and Food Safety Educator

Sources:

• Food and Health, www.foodandhealth.com
• Home and Garden TV, www.hgtv.com
• Safe Fruits and Veggies, www.safefruitsandveggies.com
• Tasting Table, www.tastingtable.com