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Shop at a farmers'market

All Practically Green: 946 or so people have DONE this action so far.

All Practically Green: 98 or so people have ADDED this to their action plan so far.

Why is "Shop at a farmers'market" green?

Farmers' markets are a great way to shop local for fruits, vegetables, meat, fish, eggs, dairy and even baked goods, as well as, honey, beeswax candles, cheese, and more. The environmental benefits of shopping at a farmers’ market include less packaging (don’t forget your reusable bags!), fewer transportation miles, and sustainably grown food. Many of the farms that sell at farmers’ markets are practicing sustainable agriculture methods even if they’re not certified organic—particularly when it comes to pesticide use and irrigation.

Nothing tastes quite as good as farm-fresh food. And, in most markets, you’ll get an up close education about where your food comes from. Shoppers can speak directly with their farmers about anything under the sun—from the weather to their growing methods to the best ways to cook things like purple cauliflower and other heirloom varieties. This proximity to the farmers is especially useful when it comes to meat and dairy; shoppers can ask about what the animals ate and if they’re administered antibiotics or hormones.

How to: Shop at a farmers'market

If you don’t already know where there is a farmers’ market near you, check online. Don’t only look for ones near your home on weekends—there might be one around the corner from your office you can frequent on your lunch break. And check for winter farmers’ markets, too.

Always ask questions! Don’t be reluctant; most farmers are happy to chat. And bring your kids if you have them. Let them help by picking out something that looks good. They might even try a new vegetable!

  • Flip & Tumble Produce Bags
    • (0 Ratings)

    You've given up disposable bags at the checkout line, now give them up in the produce aisle. On your next trip to the market, toss a set of these lightweight produce bags in with your reusable shopping tote and say no to plastic!

  • Local Flavors by Deborah Madison
    • (0 Ratings)

    This colorful cookbook features 350 savory and delicious recipes--not all vegetarian--emphasizing the joy of cooking with seasonal, regional ingredients found in farmers’ markets and roadside farm stands.

  • Farm Fresh To You: Recipe Index
    • (0 Ratings)

    This site offers a vast amount of recipes that are geared toward the different fruits or vegetables you may receive through your CSA program. Not quite sure what to do with all those collard greens? Check out some of these great, seasonal recipes!

  • Local Harvest
    • (4 Ratings)

    This website is the place to go to if you're looking for a farmers' market near you. But it also lists grocery stores and shops that sell local food. Local shops that sell local foods--what could be better?

  • Eating Well in Season: The Farmers' Market Cookbook
    • (1 Rating)

    This cookbook delivers more than 100 recipes with fresh produce at it's core. Divide by seasons, the recipes celebrate the freshest ingredients along with tips on how to preserve your farm finds, profiles of local farmers, tips on planting your own kitchen garden, and more.