Support Your Local Farmers

Spring has sprung and the farmers market is back!! I was so excited to hear that the farmers market in Tuscaloosa started up again, not only because I get extra credit in my nutrition class for going, but because I have been waiting all semester to get a chance to check it out. The booths are quite adorable and the items sold are unlike anything I was expecting. Of course the fruits, vegetables, and meat products are present. But I also saw homemade soap, baked goods, and potted plants! Next time I go I plan to buy myself a plant to hang onto my balcony, I need a little spring out there!

Supporting your local farmers is not only important to them, but it has fantastic benefits for you! Locally grown produce is healthier, has a better flavor, and is 100% organic. As a consumer, buying from a local farmer means you know exactly where your food is coming from and how far it traveled. When I am buying food in Target I try not to think about how the tomato I am buying has traveled more than I did to get to the store. It has sat on shelves, been kept fresh with who knows what, and is now available for me to buy. A little strange. Being a college student, the farmers market isn't always the most financially smart decision when buying food. I challenge you to go once a month or so and see if it impacts your budget very much! You'll be surprised to see that there isn't much of a difference in price between a super market and the farmers market produce prices. The farmers will definitely appreciate it and so will your stomach!

For those of you living in Tuscaloosa, the farmers market closest to The University of Alabama's campus is by Canterbury Chapel on Hackberry Road, between University Boulevard and Bryant Drive. The farmers market is held on Thursdays from 3-6 pm.
For a little more information: Homegrown Alabama Farmers' Market.