Ten good reasons to shop at farmers markets:

1. They cut out the middleman allowing a fair return for producers through direct selling, price control, and a regular cash flow.

2. Transport and packaging requirements are less thus reducing the producers’ costs and helping the environment.

3. There is direct contact and feedback between customers and producers, so you can be sure for example, how your vegetables are grown and meat produced.

4. Food always tastes better when you know where it comes from!

5. They help reduce food miles, thus vehicle pollution, noise, and fossil fuel use.

6. They encourage more environmentally friendly production practices, such as organic or pesticide free fruit and vegetables.

7. They encourage local economic development by increasing employment, encouraging consumers to support local business, and thus keeping money within the local community.

8. Rearing, preparing and selling animals locally help
prevent the spread of diseases etc.

9. They provide a market place for a wide range of products, which encourages organic production methods, including using traditional breeds and varieties which helps maintain genetic diversity.

10. Healthy eating is promoted, through the availability of fresh produce; where else could you buy tomatoes
picked that morning, or fish landed only last night?