Essential Tips for Local Farmers Market Shopping
Tips for Shopping at a Local Farmers Market
Shopping at your local farmers market is not only beneficial, but a great way to eat healthy & delicious produce, as well as support the local economy. A trip to the farmers market is nothing like your usual weekly trip to the grocery store, it is a unique fresh culinary experience that can sometimes be intimidating. Fiorentino’s Farm Market in Hammonton, NJ has created a list of the top 10 tips for shopping at a local farmers market. Here’s everything you need to know to get the most out of your experience whether it’s your first time or 100th time visiting!
10 Tips for Local Farmers Market Shopping
Buy in Season: Since farmers markets source produce from nearby farms, the selection of fruits and vegetables is limited to what’s in season. While you can’t expect to buy tomatoes in April, you will find a huge assortment of fresh, seasonal, rotating vegetables and fruits throughout the year. There’s always something new and exciting available!
Make it a Day Trip: Unlike a trip to the grocery store, your local farmers market can be a culinary adventure for the entire family!
Be Prepared: If you plan on running other errands afterwards, be sure to bring a cooler along so your fresh produce does not wilt throughout the day. When you get home, make sure you know how to store your produce.
Ask Questions: While grocery store employees don’t know where the produce comes from, the market employees know about the food they’re selling.
Bring Large Reusable Bags: Besides the environmental benefits of shopping with reusable bags, they’re sturdier than plastic ones and can hold the large amount of produce we’re sure you’ll be purchasing. If you’re a frequent local farmers market shopper, consider buying a wheeled cart for added convenience.
Buy Bulk Quantities: While Fiorentino’s Farm Market regularly boasts affordable prices, buying in bulk gives you the best deals of produce in peak harvest.
Pick your Time Wisely: If you don’t mind a crowd or waiting in line then feel free to head out to our farmers market any time of the day. But, if you’re looking for the freshest produce and the largest selection, be sure to arrive first thing in the morning (bonus tip: come during the week).
Be Spontaneous: Of course, come with a list in order to stick to your budget, but if you can splurge on hard to find items or something you’ve never tried before.
Embrace Whole Foods: Don’t hesitate to put unpeeled carrots into your basket, or pickup those beets with some dirt still on them. These are signs that the produce is minimally processed!
Spread the Word: Support local businesses like the Fiorentino’s Farm Market in Hammonton, NJ and other small companies by spreading the word about your awesome experience. Your recommendations and support ensure small, community-based businesses can succeed in the long run.
Fresh Produce Market in Hammonton, NJ
Fiorentino’s Farm Market is more than just a produce market! Besides our large assortment of fruits and vegetables, we also offer dairy products, nuts and a snack shop for the healthy and indulgent. Our onsite bakery is very popular in the community for breads, pies, cakes, cookies and much more! Lastly, stop by our flower market for beautiful flowers and potted plants to brighten your home. Visit our local farmers market in Hammonton, NJ or for questions call 609-561-0300.