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All the plant breeding and chemical fertilization, along with soil degradation, has left us with produce that lacks the same mineral content it had over 50 years ago due to commercial farming.
You’d have to eat 21 oranges today to get the same nutritional value as 1 orange in the 1950s.
That’s insane!
This is just another reason to buy LOCAL ORGANIC produce as often as possible.
Rutgers University found that 87% more trace elements and minerals are found in organic produce compared to commercially grown produce.
Local produce is normally considered organic and is normally cheaper than grocery store produce.
To be sure you’re getting that organic produce without the official “organic certification”, here are 5 important answers you must know at your local farmers’ market.
What are your growing standards/practices?
You’ll want to support and buy from a farm that is as close to “organic” as possible.
No use of pesticides, fungicides (herbicides) or GMO crops. It’s expensive and can take years for a small farm to get an Organic Certification, so finding a farm that adheres to the standards of organic farming without being “certified” is still a great option!
- If they use certain sprays, even if it’s only at the beginning of the season, or when needed, you’ll want to ask what sprays they use and do your own research to determine safety standards and overall pesticide/chemical exposure.
How do you handle your soil?
You’ll want to support and buy from a farm that prioritizes the integrity of their soil and puts focus into nourishing that soil since this is primarily where fruits and vegetables get their nutrients from.
Find a farm that works with the soil’s environment and produces a natural fertilizer for the plants.
Commercial farming soil management practices are neglectful, which then produces less nutrient-dense food.
What kinds of seeds do you use?
You’ll want to support and buy from a farm that grows a diverse variety of crops and uses heirloom or heritage seeds as opposed to hybrid seeds.
Hybrid seeds are strictly bred for size and a longer shelf life. GMO seeds are not sustainable and lack the amount of nutrition you expect to get from fruits and vegetables.
What are your animals fed, and what are their living conditions?
Support and buy from a farm that is free of antibiotics, growth hormones and any chemicals.
100% grass-fed/grass-finished & pasture-raised for a healthy natural diet is best for livestock AND you. This produces better quality meat and flavor.
Where is your farm located?
Support and buy from a farm that is located in a more rural area since these crops will have better air quality that can impact the foods’ nutrition.
A farm close enough for you to visit will have less transporting of food to do, which makes the produce and meat you’re purchasing almost as fresh as if it was your own!
Most farmers take pride in the meat and produce they grow and sell, so they should be happy to answer any of your questions.
You can always ask to visit their farm too. A lot of farms sell produce on location and will have stores, gift shops and events during holidays.
To make things easier, here’s a cheat sheet of the 5 important answers you must know at your farmer’s market:
Keep this list handy the next time you make it to your local Farmer’s Market!
FOR BEGINNERS IN LIVING A HEALTHY HOLISTIC LIFESTYLE YOU MIGHT ALSO LIKE THE FOLLOWING ARTICLES:
How To Start Eating Healthy & Making Healthy Decisions
4 Scary Reasons You Should Lower Your Sugar Intake Now
4 Natural Secrets When Supplementing With Honey & Bee Pollen
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