Organic Families

Farmers Markets Yield Organic Treasure A visit to your local farmers market can be an excellent source of fresh organic fruit, vegetables and protein foods. Across the country, communities have established a space for their local farmers to sell the produce they grow in organic, sustainable conditions. For the best shopping conditions, plan to arrive early in the day. Later, the goods may be picked over or even sold out.

The vibrant colors and fresh scents of the tables, stacked high with just-picked vegetables delight the morning senses. Often the produce is picked in the wee hours, packed up and set out for sale within just a couple hours. Farmers that are certified organic and use chemically free growing methods will have a printed banner or sign at their stall. It is also completely appropriate to ask the booth personnel about how the products are grown. They will be happy to fill you in on the finer points of crop rotation, natural fertilization and inter-planting to deter harmful pests. Typically the price of organic produce is lower at a farmers market than what you would pay for comparable organic goods at a grocery store. Direct from the farm does not require the high overhead expense that gets added in to a grocery store price. Organic meat, eggs and cheese usually cost less when purchased directly from the farmers, as well. The earliest markets of the season bring the fruits of springtime harvest. Bunches of crispy red radishes, bundles of leafy green spinach, a carton of brown eggs and a basket of ripe strawberries are perfect for a tasty, natural weekend lunch.

Summertime market days yield a substantial bounty. Juicy red tomatoes, summer squash, grain-fed organic chicken, crunchy peppers and fresh onions make a hearty barbecue. Add ears of sweet corn and then finish dinner with a bowl of organically grown cherries or succulent peaches. Autumn dinners are all about comfort food, especially with the knowledge that the ingredients are chemical free and fresh from the farmers market. Fingerling potatoes, crisp carrots, eggplant, beets and heirloom tomatoes are at their peak.

Organic grass-fed beef roast is fresh and available. Blueberries, blackberries, raspberries and apples are fully ripe for pie making or to eat fresh. Pears, plums and figs are also grown organically in many areas and make healthy snacks throughout the week. Local farmers markets may be found through the Agricultural Marketing Service of the United States Department of Agriculture, on county extension agency websites, through notices in regional newspapers, and on local bulletin boards.