SHAWANO & MENOMINEE COUNTIES, WI – With farmers markets and roadside stands opening across the region, health officials are encouraging residents to take advantage of fresh, locally grown produce that can benefit both their health and their budgets.
Jenna Tienor with the WIC Program at the Shawano-Menominee Counties Health Department said purchasing fruits and vegetables directly from local growers is one of the easiest ways for families to access nutritious foods while supporting local agriculture.
“You get fresh produce like fruits and vegetables that are in season, and usually those contain higher densities of their nutrients,” Tienor said.
Because locally grown produce is often harvested closer to the time it is sold, Tienor said consumers can enjoy fruits and vegetables at their peak freshness while maximizing their nutritional value.
In addition to the health benefits, Tienor said shopping at farmers markets can also have a positive environmental impact.
“It also helps reduce the environmental impact associated with transporting produce long distances from farm to grocery store shelves,” Tienor said.
By purchasing food grown closer to home, consumers help reduce the fuel and resources needed to move produce across the country before it reaches store shelves.
For families looking to stretch their grocery dollars, Tienor said farmers markets can also offer some of the best values of the season.
“Usually it is less expensive because farmers markets rely on produce that is currently in season,” Tienor said.
She noted that seasonal items such as strawberries are often significantly more affordable when purchased locally during peak harvest compared to berries shipped in from other regions and sold out of season at traditional grocery stores.
Health officials encourage residents to visit local farmers markets and roadside stands throughout the summer to enjoy fresh produce while supporting local farmers and businesses.
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