Farmer's Markets in St Louis continue to increase in popularity as more consumers embrace the benefits of eating locally sourced food. Indeed, it is very rewarding to actually meet with and purchase directly from the local farmer that produced that food. In fact, many local St Louis restaurants pride themselves on purchasing a large portion of their ingredients directly from local Missouri farms and farmer's markets.Benefits of Buying Food at Your Local St Louis Farmers’ Market
These days, buying local has become all the rage. It seems that society has finally come to its senses what with the rise of cancer cases in relation to food intake and the growing research on the benefits of consuming organic food. That said, here are some of the benefits of buying food at your local farmers’ market in the St Louis area:
It tastes better. Yes, you read it right. Why? Food from your local farmers’ market is going to taste better because it is much more fresh and natural. Unlike produce or other food products that have been flown in or shipped from other countries or states, food from your local farmers’ market is likely to be freshly harvested and sitting in a container for only maybe a day or two. In fact, studies show that the average distance travelled by food from farm to table is 1,500 miles. During that time, the food loses a significant amount of its vitality and nutrients.
It’s healthier. Research has proven time and again that the longer food waits to be eaten, the more nutrients it loses in the process. That said, food that is naturally grown and eaten almost immediately after harvest is bursting with nutrients that are necessary for optimum health. Canned, frozen, and preservative-filled food simply does not offer these benefits. Food from your local stl farmers’ market does.
It’s GMO-free. One of the scariest facts about food that doesn’t come from the local farmers’ market is that you can’t be too certain about what exactly is in it. Genetically modified foods have received such a bad rap left and right that it’s probably best to stay away from them and to stick to organic, natural options instead.
It is beneficial to the environment. The environment and wildlife benefit so much when you choose to buy local. How so? First, you significantly lessen your carbon footprint as there is a lesser distance involved to get your food from the farm to your plate. This means less carbon emissions in the environment, meaning you can make an ecological impact even with your food choices. Secondly, as the environment is preserved, this makes for a safer and cleaner habitat for wildlife in the area. All in all, this contributes to a greener and more sustainable world.
It supports St Louis local businesses. Believe it or not, you can change lives through your choice of where to purchase your weekly groceries. The rate of unemployment has never been so high in St Louis and you can make your mark in increasing jobs by supporting local businesses in your farmer’s market. Make your contribution to the economy by making a conscious effort to support local businesses wherever you can. This means choosing commodities that you know are produced by people who live in the greater St Louis area and Eastern Missouri. You never know how many lives you can affect with your choice.