Tasty Talk

Farmers Market Shopping

Hannah Rogers

Summer is upon us and so is the season for farmers markets. If you have never attended, it can be a unique experience. However, it can be frustrating for first timers when trying to decide which farmer’s produce to buy. When purchasing produce in a grocery store, the only thing you need to know is how to choose quality produce. However, purchasing quality produce at a farmers market first begins with choosing a farmer.

At these events, farmers are used to being asked questions about their produce and farming practices. It is highly suggested, even by farmers, to ask questions about their products. Farmers want you to understand their farming practices, feel safe and comfortable about their produce, and feel confident in choosing the right farmer’s produce. A good farmer will respect your decision to purchase from a different farmer.

The biggest issue that separates farmers is how they grow their crops. Knowing the difference between a regular farmer, all-natural farmer, and organic farmer is very important. A regular farmer is one who still uses fertilizers and sprays/ chemicals on their produce. An all-natural farmer properly maintains the nutrition of their soil and adheres to strict federal regulations on the inability to use anything on their produce. An organic farmer also maintains the nutrition of their soil but is legally allowed to use sprays/chemicals on their produce and bioengineer produce. This type of farming could be thought of as being between a regular and all-natural farm. Despite what type of farming they say they practice, do not just take their word – ask them questions. If they get irritated with you, then take it as a red flag and move on to the next farmer. Questions might include: how do you grow your crops, what type of sprays/chemicals do you use on each produce, how do you maintain your soil’s nutrition, what kind of fertilizer do you use, what do you use to keep bugs/worms off your produce, do you grow all-natural, do you grow seasonally, how do you grow out of season, what types of varieties do you grow (location and farming practice will determine this), and who inspects your farm.

After farmers have been interviewed, the next step is determining what farmer(s) to support with your purchases. If you are satisfied with several farmers, spread your money out and try to support them all. Farmers typically all have about the same price on their produce. The quality of each type of produce does differ among farmers, though. Some harvest early, some the morning of the market, and others harvest late. For example, green tomatoes are harvested early, soft produce is harvested late, and vibrant, firm, and strong scented produce is typically harvested that morning. If you are unsure, do not hesitate to ask the farmer more questions about harvesting times and how to choose a good produce. Asking questions is your best friend at a farmers market! Bon appetit!

Hannah Rogers recently returned home after serving 5 years in the U.S. Coast Guard as a cook. She enjoys time with her dog, baking, hiking, and serving others. Hannah is currently in the process of establishing Hananel Bakery in Batesville.