Day 6

Day 6 : Local Produce & Farmers Market

When I was in Ottawa, the one thing I loved the most was going to the Byward Market and buy fruits and vegetables from the local farmers! 

Here are my top 5 reasons to go to a farmer's market :

1. The freshness of the produce.

When farmers bring their produce to the market, it is a delight of freshness. This ensure that the food was picked at its peak and contains a maximum of nutrients and flavors!

1. You get to try new produce.

Before going to the farmers market, I would have never bought a spaghetti squash nor did I know of its existence. It was on sale at one of tables in the market and I asked about it! I got to discover one of my favorite fall veggie :)

3. The closeness you can form with the farmers.

It is truly a unique sensation. Like I mentioned earlier, I discovered new produce but also met new people who are experts when it comes to certain types of food. I got a lot of cooking tips from farmers. Added bonus : they sometimes offer discounts if you become a regular buyer!

4. It is cheaper than buying produce in a supermarket

Being on a student budget, I am always hunting for the best rebates I can get without stepping back on the quality of my food. Farmers markets helped me get the best bang for my buck when it came to produce. For less than 10$, I can usually get 2 weeks of seasonal veggies and fruits. 

5. It boosts the local economy and it is green!

By buying local products, you are helping local farmers to not only rely on the big food market chain, to live off their farms and, eventually, create new jobs! It is also greener to buy local food since there are much shorter distance to travel (less CO2 in the atmosphere)!

Some local seasonal produce to look for in July :
- Berries (strawberries, blackberries, rasberries, blueberries)
- Lettuce
- Peaches
- Peppers
- Watermelon
- Corn

That is it for Day 6! Day 7 shall be my food plan of the week! :)


Russy