By Sarah Busdon
Nothing beats fresh produce, and nothing beats the produce from the farmers’ market. By attending your local farmers’ market, you are not only supporting the health of your own family, but you are supporting Idaho farmers, local vendors and the community as a whole.
- The best flavor and quality.
You get the highest quality food fresh from the farm. There is hardly a commute unlike that from a grocery store.
- Buying local supports the local economy.
Spending money with local Idaho vendors supports Idaho communities. It comes full circle.
- Children learn where food comes from.
What better way to educate your kids about good food than a hands-on
experience with the people who grew it.
- You get fresh air, exercise and a community experience while you shop.
Vitamin D is amazing for your health. You get it for free at the farmers’ market any time the sun is out.
- Many accept cash, card or SNAP benefits.
We generally advise the public to bring cash over a credit card, but many vendors take it all. Look into your local market to see what benefits are accepted.
- Idaho farmers and vendors know their stuff.
Not sure what to do with a certain vegetable? Ask the vendor what they recommend. You might walk away with a new favorite recipe.
Not sure where the closest market is to you? Here is a schedule of farmers’ markets throughout Idaho. www.tinyurl.com/tws-markets. Article courtesy of Eat Smart Idaho, University of Idaho Extension.
Sarah Busdon is an administrative assistant with University of Idaho’s Blaine County Extension office. For more information, visit extension.uidaho.edu/blaine or call (208) 788-5585.