Do you ever wonder why it’s best to buy local grown produce from the farmers market? Rather than the big chain grocery stores? One, you don’t know when the fruits or veggies were picked. Two, when was it packaged and placed in the big truck? And three, how far did it travel and when was it put in the shelves at your local grocery store?

Sure, maybe convenience might be your reason. But chances are you will find a farmers market near you.

There are many reasons to shop for veggies, fruits, nuts, breads and more at your local farmers’ markets:

· One of the main reasons is to support your local farmers. You are not only supporting a dream but supporting small businesses that work really hard to bring these products to our table.

· Shopping local at the farmers markets helps family farms stay in business, and creates jobs. That helps out the community.

· The Ventura Certified Farmers Market is California Grown. The word “Certified” guarantees that all the fresh fruits, nuts, vegetables, eggs, honey, plants, and flowers for sale are grown and harvested in California. All the farm-raised fish, meat products, and poultry for sale here are California-grown too.

· Our local farmers are picking the fruits and veggies the day before the farmers’ markets. Local food taste better because it’s fresh.

· Local food helps the environment by reducing energy use, greenhouse gas emissions caused by long-distance food transport. Farms are local and bring you the freshest products closer to your home.

· Lastly, the farmers selling you their product will be able to answer any question you may have about their farm, when it was picked and placed in their truck and anything else you may want to learn about their process.

If you’ve never shopped at your local farmers’ market please make time and stop by. You will find more than just veggies and fruits. It is a fun, family experience you will love.