Healthy Diet for June 16 – Locally Grown

Looking for a summer outing, something that’s fun, educational, and good for you, too? Enjoy the “earthy experience” of a farmer’s market and buy your produce directly from small, local growers.

Throughout the country, local markets and U-pick-it farms are “cropping” up with seasonal produce, grown almost in your backyard. Here’s what makes them fun:

• Unique, regional produce—perhaps heirloom fruits and vegetables
• Ripe-from-the-farm flavor—especially when you pick it yourself
• Samples to taste
• Market entertainment—culinary demonstrations and local crafts
• Growers’ secrets—on growing and selecting the best produce. Just ask; vendors will likely share a cooking tip or two, as well.

Find a farmer’s market near you.

• Read your local newspaper, or call your county Cooperative Extension agent.
• Call the U.S. Department of Agriculture Farmers Market Hotline (800-384-8704) or visit www.ams.usda.gov/farmersmarkets.