Getting the Most from Farmers Market Shopping

Aug. 5 through Aug. 12 is farmers market week for NH eat Local month, and while many of you have already experienced farmers market shopping we sometimes hear from people who find the whole idea a little intimidating. This week we're sharing our best ideas for how to get the most out of a trip to your local farmers market.

1. Go prepared.
If you've been receiving our newsletter I am always quoting “check out our vendor list to start your shopping list,” so before you go to the market  always look ahead at what's coming up for supper. Take a list of any ingredients you may be able to get there. It is easy enough to change the menu if something unexpected and great shows up at the market.  Other things to bring include a handful of the plastic bags you have lying around your kitchen and a shopping bag. If you're going to be out for a while, you may also want to bring a cooler so that your heat-sensitive veggies do not wilt on the ride home.

2. Talk to the farmers!
The experience of shopping at a farmers market is enriched when you begin talking with the farmers and vendors. Some good topics: what to look for when choosing a particular kind of vegetable, the farmer's favorite ways of preparing a particular vegetable, when the item might be ready for harvest, and the impact of the recent weather on the crops. Try not to be shy, but don't monopolize the farmer either!

Other aspects of etiquette include remembering that this produce (or meat, jams, sauces honey, maple syrup etc.) represents the fruit of many hours of labor, performed by the person standing before you. Your utmost respect is required, even if the quality is not pristine. You don't have to buy it, but don't make faces or negative comments.

If you are looking for organic produce but don't see a sign saying that it is certified organic, you might want to ask about whether it is conventionally raised, or what they use for fertility and pest control. It can be a sensitive topic, so tread lightly.

3. Pick a strategy.
Some people like to walk through the whole market, looking at everything before deciding what to buy. Others hunt and gather their way through the market, buying as they go. Some like to buy most of their produce from one vendor, others like to buy a little here and a little there. Whatever your style, if you're at a new market you may feel most comfortable if you pick a strategy.

4. Become a familiar face.
Being a "regular" at a farmers market is fun. You'll feel like you belong there, you'll get to know the farmers and other regulars a little bit, and you'll be known as a loyal customer. All nice things.

5. Talk it up.
It's your community's farmers market! The more you and your neighbors go - and spend money! - the stronger and more diverse your market will become. We are always looking for volunteers to help in our information booth. Let me know if interested.

Do you have other farmer’s market shopping tips you'd like to share? We want to hear them!

Until next time, take good care and eat well.

Jane Lang

Volunteer Market Coordinator

www.salemnhfarmersmarket.com