People all across the country are getting on the bandwagon farm-marketJoin the bandwagon. Buy local, organic food for the environment, health and well-being of your family.
Here are some things you should look out for when going shopping.
Fresh is best. It is better to eat fresh fruits and vegetables than imports from all over the globe. It could also mean that you won’t find blackberries during the winter months and that the quality of what is there will be higher. You will be able to tell the difference when you eat fresh produce that is sometimes picked on the same day.
Find out more. In recent years, farm stands have taken it to the next level, selling local products like canned salsa, smoked Jerky, and baked fruit pies. The Finger Lakes region in upstate New York hosts the Cheese Trail, which introduces visitors to local cheesemakers like Finger Lakes Dexter Creamery.www.fingerlakesdextercreamery.com). Look out for honey, jams and jelly while you’re there, as well as pancake mix made with locally grown grains.
Ask questions and get to know others. The farm stand workers are full of knowledge. Do you know a vegetable you don’t like? Ask staff to show you how to cook it.
Elderberry Pond Country Foods is just one of the 940 farms located in the Finger Lakes.www.elderberrypond.com), an organic farm, store and gourmet restaurant. They believe in eating local and teach their customers how to. A market is a great alternative to a tourist bureau if you are only visiting the area for a short time. Ask for directions or suggestions for sightseeing. You will likely discover some off-the-beaten-path tips that will give you a better view of the area.
Give. Giving. Gift ideas are also available. You can sample local wine and then buy it. In the Finger Lakeswww.tourcayuga.comFor example, many markets offer wine tastings at one of the over 100 local wineries.
Look out for handmade soaps, sweaters, and other crafts made by local artisans. Markets may have items for antique and art collectors. They might also know of other places to buy it.
If you have time and are looking for ideas, gifts and local produce the next time that you are in town or out of town, consider visiting a farm marketplace.
