Summer farmers markets

Ashley Parrish, Michigan State University Extension -

Benefits to shopping at your local farmers market.

Farmers markets are in abundance during the Michigan summer months. There are many positives to making regular stops at your local farmers market to pick up fresh produce, cheese, meats, eggs, flowers and a variety of other locally made products.

Michigan State University Extension lists some benefits to shopping your local farmers market:

  • Stimulate the local and regional economy by supporting local farmers.
  • Get to know the farmer who grew the food you will feed yourself and your family.
  • Learn about specific growing methods.
  • Increase your family’s consumption of vegetables and fruits.
  • The produce has not traveled very far and is in-season, which makes improves its taste and flavor.
  • The whole family can attend for a fun and educational activity.
  • Talk with vendors and farmers about the best ways to prepare their products.

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) offers grant opportunities to specific entities to help support expanded access and consumption of locally produced foods throughout the nation. List of eligible entities and applications can be found here: USDA Agricultural Marketing Service Grant Programs page.

Most farmers markets also accept Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) dollars. To find a list where you can use SNAP dollars visit the Michigan Farmers Market Association website. To find a farmers market near you, search your location using the  USDA Farmers Markets Directory Search.

This article was published by Michigan State University Extension. For more information, visit https://extension.msu.edu. To have a digest of information delivered straight to your email inbox, visit https://extension.msu.edu/newsletters. To contact an expert in your area, visit https://extension.msu.edu/experts, or call 888-MSUE4MI (888-678-3464).

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Michigan State University Extension programs and materials are open to all without regard to race, color, national origin, gender, gender identity, religion, age, height, weight, disability, political beliefs, sexual orientation, marital status, family status or veteran status. Issued in furtherance of MSU Extension work, acts of May 8 and June 30, 1914, in cooperation with the U.S. Department of Agriculture. Quentin Tyler, Director, MSU Extension, East Lansing, MI 48824. This information is for educational purposes only. Reference to commercial products or trade names does not imply endorsement by MSU Extension or bias against those not mentioned.

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