Shopping at a farmers market has many benefits, both for you and the environment.
You get it fresh
Fruits and vegetables at farmers markets are usually freshly picked, which means they contain high contents of vitamins and minerals. This also results in them lasting longer than store-bought items that are usually a few weeks old when you see them at the shop. This freshness of ingredients also enables you to have greater control over what you eat because you know exactly what is being used in your recipes and you create healthier meals, too.
You save a buck (or two)
If you’re on a budget, a farmers market is the place to shop! Since you cut out the middleman, items are usually cheaper than the products you’ll find at shops. There are also other ways in which to save. Look for rare and/or seasonal products that are not easily found in mainstream shops, such as rare vegetables. By purchasing large quantities of seasonal items you can also save money because you stock up on products that you can use over time.
You give it back
Shopping at your local farmers market means that you’re purchasing food and produce from your area. This boosts the community and prevents the use of transportation to send the products to you.
Ways to make shopping at a farmers market greener
There are some things you can do to make shopping at the farmers market even more eco-friendly:
- Bring your own eco-friendly bags for purchases so that you cut down on plastic.
- Make a list of things you need before you go to the farmer’s market. This will prevent you from purchasing things that go to waste.
- Get an early start if you want the freshest seasonal produce which is healthier and much greener, but go later if you want discounts as farmers are most likely to lower prices at the end of the working day. This is greener on your wallet, too!
- Visit an organic market as these often integrate an eco-friendly atmosphere, such as the commitment to not use plastic (found at the Bryanston Organic Market), or the idea of quality food without the use of warehousing or distribution (such as at the Cape’s Willowbridge Slow Market).
For a larger list of organic markets, visit South Africa Online Directory.
