Farmers Have a Corner on the Market

Written by Wendy Mitchell

Summer is almost upon us and farmers across Connecticut are gearing up to share their local produce, dairy, breads and more with hungry locavores at weekly farmer’s markets.  Trumbull's farmers market opens this Thursday, June 13, 2014. The market runs Thursdays, 2:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m., June 19-October 9, Long Hill Green, Main Street, Trumbull.So why should you go? CT Nofa says that eating local organic food tastes better and is good for you, the earth and your community. Here are some more benefits:

Health benefits:
·      Higher nutrients from organically managed soil 
·      Less exposure to synthetic pesticides and fertilizers
·      No synthetic growth or breeding hormones
·      No synthetic additives
·      No antibiotics
·      No genetically engineered seeds or other inputs (GMOs)
·      No sewage sludge
·      No irradiation
 
Earth benefits:
·      Builds biodiversity
·      Reduces excess nitrogen
·      Fights climate change
·      Keeps water cleaner
·      Builds healthy soil
·      Saves energy
·      Protects wildlife
 
Community benefits:
·      Brings people together at markets and community supported farms
·      Keeps money in the local economy
·      Incorporates the true cost of food
·      Supports smaller and beginning farmers
·      Protects the health of farm workers

Make sure to stop at the ATM on your way there because most of the merchants only take cash. And don’t forget to bring your reusable bag!
Bon apetit!