Farm to table on a budget
July 24, 2018
How to get the best deals at your local farmers market
The farm-to-table movement is all the rage these days, but all that freshness comes with a hefty price tag. A locally grown salad at a restaurant might cost twice as much as the shipped variety, and the price tag on that farm-raised, grass-fed steak could be even higher.
That might be discouraging, but you do not have to let your limited budget get in the way of your quest for fresh food. The best locally grown produce and meats can be as close as the farmers market down the road. The key is knowing how to strike the best bargain and find the best providers.
Use the quest for freshness to your advantage
Farmers markets are all about freshness, and you can use that to your advantage. Farmers strive to provide fruits and vegetables picked at their peak and rushed to market. That means their shelf life may be somewhat limited. You can use that to strike a better deal.
Ask the farmer if there is riper fruit on hand. Peaches fairly bursting with juice and berries just slightly past their prime can still make for great eating. Because farmers know this almost too ripe fruit will not be good for much longer, they may be willing to negotiate a lower price.
Show up at closing time
If you want some even better bargains, show up just as the market is about to close for the day. Local producers are often reluctant to pack up unsold produce, especially if it will be too ripe by the next market day. You can strike some great bargains this way.
You may need to attend the market for a few weeks to get a feel for how things work and when the vendors start to pack up their wares and head back to the farm. Most farmers markets have set hours, but some vendors will call it a day before others. Showing up right as your favorite farmer is bringing out the boxes can give you extra bargaining power.
Get to know your local farmers
Don't be afraid to talk to the farmers. Most are eager to tell you about their operations. Getting to know them can also be a great way to get a better deal on everything from a head of lettuce to a side of beef.
Many of these vendors also sell directly from their farms, often at prices lower than those at their stands. The lower overhead of direct sales allows them to reduce the price and still make a profit.
This strategy works particularly well if you are in the market for a freezer full of meat. You may be able to strike a deal to buy a quarter or half side of beef at a time, keeping your freezer full without emptying your wallet.
Farmers markets have been growing in popularity, no doubt riding the wave of local food enthusiasts. Consumers are increasingly concerned about where their food comes from, and the local market gives them the opportunity to trace their meals from the field to the table. For those who know how to shop, attending these markets can also be a money-saving activity, with fresh produce and great meats and cheeses available for less than at the grocery store.