New Idea for Shopping at a Farmer's Market

One of summer’s pleasures is the farmers market, fresh fruit, veggies and other delicacies. While organic produce can be found year round in many grocery stores, it is often shipped hundreds of miles from the farm. Buying local can be a healthy alternative, both in terms of health of the body and the economy. Farmers markets and farm stands provide local farmers with a venue to sell the fruits (and vegetables) of their labor. By buying local means supporting sustainable food production locally with minimal transportation costs and environment impact. While not all local produce is organic, that is a growing trend in many communities.

At many markets, CSA shares or community supported agricultural shares are available. These shares are generally sold by the season and each week, the share owner goes and picks up a box of seasonal, local goodies. This is a great way to support local markets without having to brave the crowds and visit each vendor. The downside is sometimes getting a large quantity of items which are largely unidentifiable or unpalatable. The yumminess factor of fruits and veggies truly is in the eye of the beholder.

For the foodie who wants to smell the berries and admire the cakes, coming prepared is essential. In many communities, there are markets with just a few vendors or there are markets with vendors lining a city block and a half. While most vendors will bag their wares, coming prepared is essential because the little bags conspire to weigh one down while strolling among the stalls progresses.

For many using the same tried and true cloth grocery bags is sufficient. It is important to note, however , some other alternatives. While farmers markets of past generations used to be only about corn, green beans and some apples, the farmers markets of today feature fresh cheeses, locally sourced and processed grass feed meat and poultry, eggs and baked goods. Even early in the morning, in many parts of the country especially during the summer, the mornings are warm, warmer than is safe for the meat and cheeses. While getting those items last is an option, it is often not a convenient one. During a crowded market, it becomes less and less feasible, zig zagging through the market and worse yet, at many markets the motto is “Buy it now before it is gone.”

A handy option is a cooler bag or tote, perfect for safe guarding the cool goodies, both while shopping and on the trip home. While many of these coolers scream “Take Me Out to the Ballgame” there are other alternatives. A picnic or beach inspired cooler bags or totes, while stylish and practical, often are perfect for market day. Another nice option is the hot or cold bag available at many grocery stores, versatile, economical and practical. Some of these bags also are available with a luggage like roller board option, adding agronomical to the list of fine features.

The best bags, from cloth to insulated cooler varieties, have a handle which is sturdy and easy to carry and feature a stable bottom so that the bag will rest ground without toppling over, while paying the vendors or sorting through the produce for the best melon and carrots. Juggling the bag and the pending purchase is a recipe for trouble.

Another bonus, these bags maximize the time at the market. See some great organic coffee and pastries?  No problem! Lingering over the cup of Joe and flaky croissant will not cause the cream cheese to melt or the chicken to spoil. It allows for pre-shopping, before meeting friends for brunch.

While many summer market shoppers try to stock up for the week at the market, some weeks are more miss than hit and a stop at the local grocery store on the way home is a must. Having your farmers market goodies safely stored in a cooler bag or tote, makes this stop hassle and worry free. No spoilage in a hot car.

The local farmers market is a wonderful shopping experience and going prepared makes it all the more enjoyable. Trying something new is an adventure, getting it home does not have to be.