#ESMMatFM

Staying Active in the Winter Months

Movement and staying active is beneficial for overall health throughout the whole year, but the winter season can pose particular challenges for many in terms of exercising. Unpredictable winter weather and extreme temperatures can make outdoor physical activity difficult for those who prefer outdoor sports or runs, and it can also create travel barriers to… Continue Reading Staying Active in the Winter Months

Shopping at a Farmers Market

Have you ever heard of a farmers market? Maybe you’ve heard of a farmer, who is someone who grows and harvests food. Farmers markets are usually outdoor areas with sections where each farmer sells their fruits, veggies, or meat to the community to make money. It is also where artists, bakers, or makers can sell… Continue Reading Shopping at a Farmers Market

Price of Food at Farmers Markets

Farmers markets offer a wide variety of fresh, local fruits, vegetables, eggs, meats, baked goods and more. The quality of produce is generally unbeatable, as most fruits and veggies are picked at the peak of ripeness just days or even hours before you buy them. And many farmers selling at the market follow organic practices.… Continue Reading Price of Food at Farmers Markets

Farmers Market Resources

National Farmers Market Week starts Sunday, August 6th. This week highlights the important role farmers markets play in the nation’s food system. Last year, $20.2 million of SNAP funds were used at farmers markets in the United States, helping families buy fresh, healthy food and support their local farmers. Right here in Virginia, we have… Continue Reading Farmers Market Resources

 

Eating Smart and Moving More at Farmers Markets this Summer

Guess what is [finally] here? Our Eat Smart, Move More at Farmers Markets campaign! After months of planning, designing campaign materials (billboards, bus signs, magnets, and tote bags), and collaborating with Cooperative Extension Agents and Farmers Market Managers across the state, the campaign is totally up and running. The purpose of the campaign is to encourage… Continue Reading Eating Smart and Moving More at Farmers Markets this Summer

 

National Farmers Market Week 2015

Happy National Farmers Market Week! I hope you’ve had a chance to visit your local farmers market and taste the delicious fresh, Virginia Grown™ food available there. All summer long, we’ve been encouraging you, our loyal readers, and participants of our program to Eat Smart, Move More at Farmers Markets. Using SNAP at farmers markets… Continue Reading National Farmers Market Week 2015

 

Move More at Farmers Markets?

Our campaign promoting the use of SNAP at farmers markets uses the tagline “Eat Smart, Move More at Farmers Markets.” But you may be wondering how can you move more at farmers markets. In our program, we encourage people to increase their physical activity in many ways, from traditional workouts to fitting in fitness during… Continue Reading Move More at Farmers Markets?

 

Farmers Market Food Safety

As part of our #ESMMatFM series this summer, we’ve shared storage recommendations for fresh fruits and veggies, recipe suggestions for summer produce, cooking ideas for local foods, and tips for your first visit to a farmers market. Today, it’s all about keeping your farmers market purchases safe, from farm to table.