Be a Savvy Farmers Market Shopper

Farmers markets are becoming increasingly popular around the country. This means more opportunities for vendors to showcase their produce and more options for consumers.

Here are a few tips for maximizing your trip and becoming a savvy farmers market shopper — whether you’re new to shopping at farmers markets or go regularly.

• Start small. Buy salad ingredients to have at dinner each night and fruit for meals or snacks. Purchase vegetables you know how to prepare. Once you gain confidence, add new items. Search for staples you normally buy at the supermarket. In addition to fruits and vegetables, many vendors sell items such as bread, coffee, nuts, seeds and even soap.
• Be flexible. Since items at a farmers market are always subject to change, bring a general shopping list rather than a specific one for the whole week. Consider ingredients that can be tossed together for salads and produce that can be used as a side dish.
• Don't be shy. The people selling products want to answer your questions. So, go ahead, and ask them. It’s the perfect time to find out what sunchokes are.
• Do your homework. Find a market that's in a convenient location and has hours that fit your schedule so you can easily add a shopping trip into your weekly routine. Visit www.localharvest.org for markets in your area.
• Time your outing. If you can only go on weekends, get there early. Otherwise, go on a weekday during the middle of the day. The less traffic in the market, the more opportunities you'll have to get the best products and chat with vendors. If you're shopping on a budget, going at the end of the market day might enable you to get some deals and negotiate prices with the vendors.
• Bring cash and reusable bags. While an increasing number of vendors take credit cards, some charge additional fees for convenience and others still rely on cash. Keep small bills on hand to make transactions easy. And remember to bring a sturdy, eco-friendly bag to carry your purchases home.
• Become a gourmet. Ask the vendors for cooking suggestions; sometimes they provide recipes. Discover new recipe ideas, plus tips on selecting and storing fruits and vegetables.

Learn more about shopping at farmers markets.

Information provided by Julie Negrin, MS, CN, and the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics' Hunger and Environmental Nutrition dietetic practice group.