Farmers' markets have long been places to exchange locally produced goods. It’s also a place where a community can come together in the bounty of the land.

Treasure Valley has an abundance of farmers’ markets where you can buy local produce and other homemade and home-grown goods. They usually set up shop between the months of April through October. Below are just a few benefits we get from these microcosms of local industry:

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You ensure you’re getting the perfect products for you and your family’s needs

When farmers sell their goods to middlemen, they have to account for the time the product has to travel and be displayed on shelves. This means produce are picked way ahead of time for them to be ripe and be best for consumption. Since local producers don’t have to account for this when they participate in farmers’ markets, it gives us the value-added benefit of getting our products farm-fresh and exactly ripe for consumption. 

Admit it, there are times when you just want to sit back and not have to worry about cooking for yourself and others. Most of not all farmers’ markets also feature local food preppers and artisans so that’s one less thing to worry about. 

You’re promoting sustainable farming practices

In line with cutting out the middleman, patronizing Farmers’ Markets help reduce their possible contributions to global warming. How? Logistically speaking, when goods go straight to the consumer via the Farmers’ Market, fewer carbon emissions are generated. In relation to this, goods sold in these markets generally do not have a lot of packaging. 

As mentioned above, farmers do not have to account for travel time. They can therefore grow their crops as they wish leaving less strain on the land the crops grow on. To top it off, most farmers’ markets also support organic farming practices. 

You’ll hardly ever see genetically modified food (GMO) products being sold in these markets. The USDA says organic produce has fewer pesticide residues than conventionally grown produce, This assures you that the food you’ll serve your family is healthy and pesticide-free. 

You’re directly supporting community-based SMEs

By purchasing goods from local producers you’re providing a significant increase to their income. Studies suggest that farmers only receive a low percentage of income (+/- 15 cents for every dollar) when their goods are sold in supermarkets. Farmers’ Markets cuts off the middle man so consumers like you and me get access to farm-fresh produce and the money we pay goes straight to the farmer’s pockets. And it’s not just farmers who benefit from this. Local food entrepreneurs and craftsmen earn a lot more when you purchase from them directly. 

You help build your community 

Relationships are built on trust and that’s the appeal of knowing who grew the produce you’re buying for your family. To top this off, local farmers’ markets bring neighborhoods closer by providing them with a relaxing environment to socialize. Nothing brings people together better than food. 

It’s good for your overall health

Sure, you come to buy farm-fresh goods without pesticides and other additives for your consumption. That’s a health benefit on its own. Apart from that though, you get to step out of the house. The past couple of years have been hard on all of us not just physically but emotionally and mentally as well. Being able to just step out and soak in the sunshine while breathing in fresh air is priceless. Socializing and enjoying the company of other people releases a lot of strain given the times we’re in. 

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And there you have it! The benefits you get out of supporting your local farmers’ market. Check out our blog about the Amazing Farmers’ Markets in Treasure Valley. Now if you want to know more about Boise or if you’re interested in owning a home in beautiful Idaho, check out our featured listings at Platinum Idaho Real Estate.