Prepare your shopping list and start your trip to the farmers market.

Farmers markets are the new tendency when we talk about buying components for meals because, nowadays, the green and fresh ingredients are what the kitchen and famous chefs prefer. But they can be a little confusing, so keep reading to learn more about them.

These can be a small or huge concentration of different stands and booths where you will find products directly from the farmers; therefore, they will tend to be fresh and organic. Also, it’s very common to see booths dedicated to food or sweets prepared with these ingredients that you can taste right there at the market.

These kinds of fairs exist around the world and can show you the local culture of the town, city, or country that you’re visiting. However, the first time in a farmers market, you can be a little lost and don’t know how to buy or how to behave with the sellers or older consumers. For that reason, check these tips and have a great visit.

Let’s know the tips!

Check the seasonal products

In many markets the products tend to change according to the season; for example, it will be hard to find tomatoes in winter -within many farmers markets- so keep in mind the seasons to know what to buy. Of course, several countries aren’t affected by this so you will find all kind of products, especially in tropical areas. For that reason, it will be good to do a research about it.

Get to know the market beforehand

If the market possesses an info booth or social networks, try to check them. That way you will know what they have and what are the special offers. Also, if you are looking for a very specific ingredient, they can answer you that way. Try to collect all the information you can.

Shopping bags, cart, and small bills

If you are planning to make a large purchase, it will be best if you take shopping bags (eco-friendly bags since it is a farmers market after all) and, to have more commodity, a portable shopping cart for the products. If you’re planning to go early in the morning, try to have small bills: the farmers will appreciate no changes that soon and your shopping will be quick.

Bargaining

This will depend on the place where it is located. In the U.S.A., for example, the majority of the markets don’t go with this buying form but, in certain countries, you will find that it is good to bargain with the owners, even when language can be a limitation. Again, try to find out all the information that you can about the market.

No pets

The majority of farmers market don’t allow pets because of safety and health issues. So try to keep your pet at home: even at the ones that admit it, shopping can be difficult. The only pets that can be allowed to the markets are the service dogs, and they should have their proper identification.

Respect the farmer and the products

Do you want to know if the fruit or vegetable is ripe? Don’t squeeze them, less if you won't buy them. Trust in the farmer that will guide you through his or her products, and they will explain to you what it is and what it is good for. You may end up with a new obsession over a fruit or vegetable.

Engage in conversation with the farmer and booth staff

Talking with the farmers and workers can give you many advantages in the place. They will feel appreciated. You can ask about the routine at the farms, how they work, where is located, if you can visit, and if they are preparing new products. Always with a smile on your face and respect above everything else.

Organic certification

Every local should have displayed their organic certification for everybody to see it. If they don’t have it, you can ask for it. Never be afraid of doing it because the natural production is the star at this kind of markets.

Volunteering

If you want to know more about the workers, farms, and how your favorite fruit or vegetable grows, just go and offer yourself as a volunteer. You will be surprised to find out how many benefits you can obtain by giving a hand. Maybe you will go home with cheese, jam or pie; or, if you are very good, with an entire basket of goods.

Show the farmers how you use their products

The farmers will be pleased to hear how you use the goods, or how you cook them. Maybe you can even give them a pie or a jam in your next visit. That way the farmer will know that his or her products are fantastic and being well used. Don’t be afraid of making bonds with them.

Farmers market can be your new favorite place to go shopping for your house. Never doubt to visit one: you can find tons of new things and experiences. Come to Davide Punto Cucina and taste our dishes cooked with the best products of the island!