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    7 Reasons to Shop at Your Local Farmers Market

    Rebekah Basham, PA, PA Deaconess Clinic  05/13/2015
    Spring is here which means it’s almost time for the local Farmers Markets to set up shop. Farmers markets are retail markets designed for consumers to purchase goods directly from local farmers, artisans and food vendors. You can count on fresh, quality produce and products to incorporate into your healthy lifestyle. Here are 7 reasons to consider shopping at your local Farmers Market. 
     
    1. Fresh is best
    Most people would agree a freshly picked garden tomato taste far better and is no comparison to the store bought equivalent. Produce purchased from farmers markets are picked ripe and ready to eat often the day before or same day of the market. The food does not have to be altered or overly processed to allow for transit and an extended shelf life in the grocery store. Processing fruits and vegetables such as canning and freezing also compromises nutrition value, another reason fresh whole produce is superior. 
     
    2. Health is even better
    Everyone benefits from eating more fruits and vegetables which are full of vitamins and antioxidants. Produce is the most under consumed food group for most people. Consuming the recommended 5-9 servings of fruits and vegetables daily will decrease your risk of cancer, heart disease, and many other chronic diseases.  
     
    3. Choose from a large selection of organic and natural foods
    Organic, cage free, grass fed, no antibiotics, GMO free and “natural” are just a few of the recent trends in healthy eating. Local grocery stores are responding to this increased demand, however Farmers Markets have a much larger selection of these products usually for a more reasonable price. 
     
    4. Food isn’t everything
    Many markets now sell more than seasonal produce. Flowers, crafts, handmade clothing, art, local restaurants and food vendors are just a few goods and services available from your Farmers Market. 
     
    5. Support local farmers and artisans
    Purchasing directly from local farmers allows more money to stay in the community instead of companies based far away. Money is not spent on transit and prolonging shelf life, which means more money for the farmers and artisan, and more money in your pocket. This strengthens the local economy which benefits everyone. 
     
    6. Exercise
    Visiting the Farmers Market is a perfect opportunity to take advantage of the warm weather and walk along the vendor path. 
     
    7. Family fun
    Visit the individual market websites for announcements about live music, bouncy houses, animal exhibits, free giveaways, and other activities frequently offered. 
     
    Farmer's Markets in the area:
    Tuesdays, Fridays, Saturdays 10:00am – 6:00pm, or until sold out.
    Corner of 2nd and Main Streets, Henderson KY
     
    Saturdays 7:30am – 12:00pm
    611 W. Main Street, Boonville IN (Boonville Public Library Parking Lot)
     
    Saturdays 8:00am – 12:00pm
    Corner of State & Water Streets, Newburgh IN
     
    Saturdays 9am-1pm
    Lawn of the West Library, 2000 W. Franklin Street
     
    evansville.marketwagon.com
    Vendors register on their website, individuals can order from the site and then pick up items at hub spots. Sort of an online farmers market. 
     
     
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