Forsyth MO. - A trend, that's here to stay, is buying
locally grown fruits and vegetables instead of produce that's
been trucked cross-country. While many people have gotten on board, I
was wondering if the hype over the health benefits of locally grown
food is all it’s cracked up to be.... Yes, it was!
According to the U.S. Department of
Agriculture, the number of farmers markets in the U.S. has increased
in recent years. There were fewer than 2000 in 1994 and, today, there
are more than 8,800 markets listed in the USDA’s National
Farmers Market Directory. Restaurants that cook with local meat,
dairy, fruits and vegetables also are a growing trend,
according to the National Restaurant Association.
The main health benefit of locally
grown food is that it’s much fresher. Fruits and vegetables begin to
lose their nutrients within 24 hours of being picked, so fresher
produce is more nutritious produce. In addition, locally grown food
is picked at its peak ripeness, when it’s most dense with
nutrients, and that's a good thing!
Eating local also means you can meet
the people who grow your food. You can ask them questions about their
farming methods and pesticide use (if any). Local farmers
typically focus on soil health and safe growing practices, especially
if they’re farming organically. Better quality soil and more
sustainable farming practices typically mean better tasting, more
nutritious produce.
That's why, when I heard about a local market that is open every Saturday from 8AM to 2PM, I jumped in my car and went across the Bull Shoals bridge and up Manly Hill (Hwy 76) top the top of the curve where I saw a group of booths. After parking, I walked over to find not only a wide array of veggies, but also a wide choice of bric-a-brac! In addition, there is a food stand with beverages and an assortment of sandwiches!
So be sure to mark your calendar for every Saturday, from now until mid December, and grab up some farm fresh produce!
