1.  Ask Questions

Organic certification can be out of reach for small farmers even if they are committed to ethical practices.  Farmers also sometimes choose to forgo organic certification for valid reasons.  Start a conversation and ask questions if you don't see certifications.  The more you ask, the more you'll understand how to support the practices that matter to you without ruling out smaller farms.  If I don't see any signage to communicate organic certification, I like to ask: "What's the difference between certified organic practices and yours?"  From seed, soil, fertilizer, pest control, feed, where and how animals are raised, the topics here are varied and really interesting.  I've learned so much from these conversations.  This is a great resource if you want to dig deeper.  I also like to ask: "Is everything grown on your farm?"  It can be common for farms to resell produce and other goods bought at wholesale.  If they are selling wholesale, is the produce ethically sourced from a nearby farm to round out their selection?  Or is it conventional produce flown in from farther away?  

2.  Understand Seasonality

Understanding what's in season in your local area will give you the best tasting, most nutritious food.  Eating seasonally also benefits the environment and your local farming communities.  Use this tool to lookup the best of the season in your local area.  

3.  Enjoy 

There is something really special about connecting to the seasons and land through what we eat.  I appreciate cooking and eating so much more when this connection is there.  We hope this little guide helps you enjoy the best of your local farmers markets. And for more food and cooking things, explore our Kitchen and Cookbook collections in the shop!

Olivia