Retiree Tips

Enjoy Fresh Air and Fresh Food at Farmers Markets

For many of us, the summer months bring more trips to a local farmers markets, perhaps due to the weather or perhaps because shopping there is more like an excursion than an errand. Of course, there are many benefits of including a stop to the farmers market in your week.

First, of course, is that you are outside in the fresh air and probably getting a little exercise walking among the different vendors.
Secondly, you typically have an opportunity to purchase fresh and wholesome food directly from the grower, which allows you to ask any questions about how the product is grown or how to best prepare it.
Third, social opportunities seem to increase at open air markets as there are usually home-baked goods and a cup of coffee or tea to enjoy during your shopping experience.
Fourth, the visual stimulation of fresh produce, as well as fresh flower bouquets, can invigorate your senses and boost your creativity.

Farmers markets, of course, have a history in our country. You may remember your parents or grandparents shopping often for fresh products. Yet, even with the modem availability of many retail stores, farmers markets are enjoying a growth spurt in the U.S. Here are some facts from the United States Department of Agriculture:

Farmers markets, now an integral part in the urban/farm linkage, have continued to rise in popularity, mostly due to the growing consumer interest in obtaining fresh products directly from the farm.
The number of farmers markets in the United States has grown dramatically, increasing 111 percent from 1994 to 2004.
According to the 2004 National Farmers Market Directory, there are over 3,700 farmers markets operating in the United States.
Direct marketing of farm products through farmers markets continues to be an important sales outlet for agricultural producers nationwide, especially small farm operators (who represent 94% of of all farms).

Farmers markets also help to promote nutrition education, wholesome eating habits, and better food preparation, as well as boosting the community's economy. So, consider a trip to your local farmers market and enjoy!

Who Benefits from Farmers Markets?

Small farm operators: Those with less than $250,000 in annual receipts who work and manage their own operations meet this definition (94 percent of all farms).

Farmers and consumers: Farmers have direct access to markets to supplement farm income. Consumers have access to locally grown, farm-fresh produce and the opportunity to personally interact with the farmer who grows the produce.

The Community: Many urban communities where fresh, nutritious foods are scarce gain easy access to food. Farmers markets also help to promote nutrition education, wholesome eating habits, and better food preparation, as well as boosting the community’s economy.