To Market, To Market

The farmers' market seems like a quaint idea, but did you know there are some great benefits from shopping at your local farmers' market?

Financially, both you and the farmer benefit. The farmer reaps all the profit and you generally pay less than you would at the supermarket. Health wise, you get more information about your food than you would in the grocery store produce aisle.

To me, the most appealing idea is that I can talk to the farmer directly and learn more about the food I’m eating. So when buying milk, I ask, "Where is your farm?", "Do your cows graze freely?", "Do you believe in adding hormones?", "Is your farm organic?" and so on. Growers tend to be very passionate about their food and are happy to answer, whereas the CEO of Dole might not be so inclined to share that information.

Many Europeans shop mostly at their local farmers' markets and find it strange that Americans rely so heavily on supermarkets. Maybe you don't want to know that much about your food, but maybe you do. If you do, head to your local farmers' market. It will be worth the trip.

Fit's Tip: Most farmers' markets only take cash, so be sure to stop at the ATM before going.