I finally got to visit my traditional farmer’s market in Manhattan, after a 4+ month hiatus. I had paused my trips there due to COVID and my hesitancy of riding the subway. Even though I couldn’t go to Manhattan, I was able to get veggies and fruit either via delivery or at a farmer’s market near our place. I was like a kid at a candy store today – buying just about every fruit and veggie I saw. I did have limitations for I know how much I can fit in my refrigerator 🙂
I love farmer’s markets for they
- allow folks to meet the people that grow/raise their food
- provide the opportunity to try something not typically in a grocer
- help reduce food injustices/insecurity for some communities.
Being at the market today also reminded me that one’s location plays an influential role on farmer’s markets. Specifically in the aspects of
- Fruit and Vegetable variety
- Number of farmer’s at a market
- Length (how long occur) and frequency of the markets
Here’s the thing – this isn’t just a New York City thing for I’ve noticed these same aspects in other places that I’ve lived. You also can’t point the finger at one particular entity because all parties (i.e., government, consumers, farmers) associated with farmer’s markets play a part. I encourage you to check out the two references I provide.
BUT everyone can be part of the solution! Consumers can request for more options in produce offerings, farmers can consider attending another market location feasible for them, and the government programs can look into extending the market season for some locations.
Just my two cents!
Maranda's World 