We try to shop locally when possible. We go to the farmers' markets on the weekend, I try to buy food that is in season, when I see that something is grown or made locally I am more likely to buy that than other options. But we still get a lot of our food from Wegmans- let's face it, it is convenient to have everything you need to buy under one (large) roof. But this summer, we are making more of an effort than ever. So I am excited to announce The Great Local Food Tour!
Every weekend, I will be going to farms, small retail shops, farm stands, etc. I am starting with my county (Chester) but I have big plans to also tour Montgomery County, Philadelphia, and whatever else I can get to as time permits. I will be asking questions about organic vs non-organic methods, what's in season, different varieties of specific fruit or vegetables (what makes an heirloom an heirloom), each farm's history and their reach.
We will still be shopping at Wegmans a great deal- for now, it's the easiest way to get things like almond milk (although I plan on making my own eventually), coconut oil, beans, grains, and nuts in bulk, and certain warmer climate or exotic fruits (avocado, papaya, mango, citrus, etc.)
But ingredients for salad, in-season fruit and veggies, mushrooms, honey, eggs, dairy and even peanut butter? I already know I can access them easily at our farmers market in Phoenxville. Now I just plan on expanding our options, supporting other local farmers and businesses, and creating blog content along the way. ;)
If you are local, want to follow along on this adventure? And if you are not local, I hope what I learn and share inspires you to seek out your own local food!
P.S. The finds I share will largely be plant-based, but there will sometimes be meat and animal products. Chris eats meat (rarely) if it is organic, pastured, etc. We also occasionally eat eggs, cheese, ice cream (him and Aurelia more so than me.)
Such a cool project! Excited to hear all about it.
ReplyDeleteThanks so much, I am excited to talk about all the great farmers I've been meeting :)
ReplyDeleteI have been looking into local farms recently too...we are going to share a weekly organic basket with friends. What do you think about raw milk? I have friends who swear by it and some who think it is too risky.
ReplyDeleteThanks for the comment! I personally don't drink milk, and only occasionally do I eat other dairy- ice cream, cheese, butter. But I have had raw milk and handled it fine. I think if you are going to drink dairy milk, why not get it rich with all the live enzymes, you know? Pasteurized milk has all the enzymes killed off, and then in my opinion, there is nothing good left. The calcium and vitamin D are not as high as one might think- milk is often fortified. Plus the milk's protein can make the body acidic and leach minerals from your bones, despite what the dairy industry says.
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