July 2021 Fresh Finds at the Farmers' Market
by KRNC staff and Annie Bush
Are you ready to get outside and celebrate summer? Farmers’ markets offer a safe way to socialize and engage with the community. Plus, this is a hot spot to find a wide selection of fresh-picked produce that promises freshness, optimal flavor and nutrient availability. Read on for more reasons to add farmers’ markets to your bucket list this season.
What is the new normal at farmers’ markets?
Most markets are back in operation, but adjusting for safe public health practices and guidelines. Unsure if you’re ready for crowds? Search for your area’s daily farm stands.
If you prefer a virtual shopping experience, check your area for an E-market that uses an online ordering platform.
Click here to find a farmers’ market in your area.
Safe shopping considerations
The way most vendors set up allows for a huge display of fresh produce – this design also encourages people to pick out items themselves. Bring hand sanitizer and only touch what you are interested in purchasing. Lines and crowds? Even if the market is outside, it is still recommended to practice safe distancing and follow local mask mandates.
Make the most of your market visit
- Farmers’ Markets present a unique opportunity to interact with the local farms in your area and learn about growing practices and cooking inspiration.
- Go with a recipe in mind and walk around the market to find the ingredients you need. You can start with this Colorado produce calendar to see what’s in season and likely available at a nearby market.
- Make the market your meetup with friends and family. Get outside, enjoy the fresh air and lively environment, and even plan for a picnic to celebrate your sweet finds. Many markets have prepared snacks and drinks ready to enjoy making them a great breakfast, brunch or lunch spot.
- Be open to trying unusual varieties. Notice how produce might look a little different than what you might find in the grocery store. Many small farms offer native and heirloom varieties, which can appear different than produce from larger commercial farms.
- Be on the lookout for other specialty items- flower bouquets, eggs, meats, crafts, clothing, jewelry, coffee, spice blends, salsas and more!
- Support local honey producers and pick up a sweet treat that is raw and contains multiple health-promoting properties.
- Explore your area’s different markets. Farmers’ markets range in size and can found through a simple Internet search noting “Farmers’ market + [your current location].”
Need a recipe idea for your market finds? Check out Annie’s favorite arugula beet salad (and maybe pick up some goat cheese while you’re out).
Get to know the Author:
Bush is from Boise, Idaho and moved out to Colorado to study nutrition in the Department of Food Science and Human Nutrition at Colorado State University. She is a senior and completing her degree in FSHN with a concentration in Dietetics. Bush is interested in topics like community nutrition, nutrition education, public health nutrition and maternal nutrition. A few fun facts about her: she completed her EMT certification last summer and she was featured as KRNC’s Student Spotlight earlier this year! Learn more about Annie here.
More Information:
For additional resources to healthy eating, check out these programs from our registered dietitian nutritionists. Find delicious and healthy recipes on our Recipes page! More health tips are also available at the College of Health and Human Sciences Pinterest board. Lastly, don’t forget to sign up for the KRNC monthly newsletter!