I had a blast a few weeks ago filming this segment for a new ABC show called Bay Area LIFE.
We went to the Farmers Market at the Ferry Building Marketplace to talk about how to be a smart consumer. If you do not shop at a farmers market, please consider adding it to your routine. It is the best way to support your local farmers. When you shop local, you have a connection with your farmers and create a healthier relationship with food for you and yours. It is extremely important to know where your food comes from!
Some tips:
Try something new! We tend to eat the same foods – get out of your comfort zone and try a fruit or vegetable you have never tasted or consider trying a new varietal of a common food you like.Romenesco instead of Cauliflower, cook beet greens or enjoy one of the many citrus varieties available right now.
Talk to your farmer. Your farmers want your support, and they are working their tushies off to bring you gorgeous, fresh, local food – talk to them! They are full of wisdom and want to share. I promise.Ask them how to store food, recipes, flavors and ask for samples. Try it to see if you like it. Ya never know what you might like!
Organic vs Sustainable. The USDA has created Organic laws which prevent using GMOS and pesticides in farming practices. However, due to financial and administrative issues, there are a lot of farms that are following organic practices, but are not technically USDA organic.They often call themselves “sustainably grown” or something similar. Again, ask your farmer and they will tell you!
Want to save some cash? If you shop later in the day, you will likely get better prices as the farmers are trying to sell their product. Also, if you do your research and buy most of your produce from one farmer, you can negotiate better.
Eat your veggies! I jokingly say this in the clip but I mean it – eat more vegetables if you want to lose weight, get healthy, look better and feel better. The more the better. Eat up. Half your plate. Do it.
When you eat local, you know you are eating in season, you are eating fresh, supporting our farmers and making a difference for your health and the environment.
Want to know where to find more farmers markets? Check out Local Harvest for more information.
Happy shopping!