Benefits of buying direct from the producers
The Farmers’ Market is a pivot point for community development on many different levels. Many community elements are positively influenced by the existence of a strong farmers’ market, including agriculture, local food security, arts and culture, tourism, the retirement economy, community health, quality of life, environmental protection, and social development in the Quesnel area.
Other advantages to buying locally are:
The opportunity to buy super fresh produce, which is generally picked a very short time prior to your purchasing it - hours to a couple of days. It tastes better and will last in the fridge longer!
Higher quality produce as it stays on the plant longer, maximizing nutrient content, appearance, texture, and of course, taste.
Less processing and preparation at home needed for market produce, compared to over-ripe or under-ripe foods from out of the Cariboo area, which are imported into BC and sold at the local supermarket.
Heightened awareness of how much tastier in-season, local foods are are than those brought here out-of-season.
Supporting the local farming community, as the money you spend on the produce goes directly to the farmer and does not get intercepted by any middle men.
More local jobs within the agri-food sector will be created and maintained as the demand for local products increases.
Purchasing foods grown and produced in BC sustains farming in BC communities and keeps BC variety products available.
Increasing the sense of community in the city and maintaining our unique community character.
How to Shop at the Farmers' Market
Bring your own bags or baskets! - Reduce, re-use, recycle! Bags are provided at all vendor booths, but bringing your own re-used bag or cloth bag is always appreciated, and helps reduce waste.
Bring children! - Kids are more than welcome to attend the market and it can also be an educational experience! When asked where food comes from, most kids will answer "the supermarket". At the Farmers' Market they can see fresh-picked vegetables, as they would come from the ground, tree, or plant. It could also pique their interest and cure any "pickiness" of what they are willing to eat.
Shop early! - "The early bird gets the worm" is very true at the Farmers' Market. Frequent customers know that if you're looking for something specific, best come early or it could be all gone. After all, selection is limited and choice produce will certainly disappear first.
Make the rounds first! - There are always a few booths who will be providing similar items, but with variations as to selection and perhaps price. It’s always good to make sure you're getting the items most suited to your needs and the most out of your dollar, so compare!
Don't come with a firm shopping list! - Most people don't leave home for the supermarket without a list to ensure that they don't forget anything that's needed. While this is a great idea, try not to stick to those items on your list only. There's plenty of variety and many surprise items at the market, so keep a lookout for something you may not have had before.
Try something new! - There's plenty of variety at the Farmers' Market, and it's a great place to learn about new foods. Never tried kohlrabi or garlic scapes? Ask the vendor how to select the best and prepare it, too.
Chat with the vendors! - Who better to get tips on what you're buying than from the vendor themselves?! Get tips on how to cook more unusual items, and how to store them for maximum freshness. The Farmers' Market is all about seeing where and who your product is coming from!
Plan to go straight home! - You will find your vegetables a lot more fresh and enjoyable if you get them home and into the fridge right away. If going home immediately isn't an option, bring a cooler to keep them fresh in the car while you run other errands.
Relax and have fun! - Shopping at the market is often spontaneously social event. Take your time and enjoy the day! Hang out and spend time with friends new and old, have a delicious snack, beverage or convenient meal, enjoy the live music!Head home afterwards feeling satisfied that you did a lot more in your day than just getting groceries.