Keep in mind that there is a BIG difference between a farmers market with LOCAL farmers selling their homegrown foods and little single farm stands that sell things that are NOT local. Here in Minnesota, we have these deceptive little farm stands that sell things that would NEVER grow in Minnesota, like pineapple, oranges, bananas, etc. They are usually the same stuff you would get at a grocery store and often for higher prices. Just because they have things that WOULD grow locally as well does not mean that they ARE grown locally. And just because its at a farm stand does not mean its grown without chemicals either. Ask questions! Is it grown locally? Is it grown without chemical fertilizers/pesticides/insecticides/herbicides? When was it harvested? A true local farm stand will sell produce that was picked THAT morning only miles away. Remember that nutrients are lost each day after something is picked and with shipping, storage, etc., so its always better to buy locally whenever possible to ensure maximum nutritional benefits!
Posted on: Wed, 09 Jul 2014 17:07:06 +0000