Pick Fresh, Stay Safe: Your August Farmer’s Market Guide
As news about Cyclospora Cayetanensis spreads across the globe, families here at home are making sure they do their part to avoid eating contaminated produce.
Without being cautious, you could find yourself dealing with an intestinal illness called Cyclosporiasis.
One way we can make sure our fruits and veggies are safe to eat is to buy local…and August is the perfect month to do so.
Tables at farmer’s markets are overflowing with sweet corn, juicy peaches, colorful peppers, tomatoes, berries, cucumbers, and so much more.
One of the best parts of shopping at a farmers’ market is getting to know the people who grow your food. Meeting local farmers helps you build a connection to where your fruits and vegetables come from, giving you greater confidence in the quality of what you're bringing home to your family.
However, you should still make sure to properly handle your produce, as it’s an important step to protect your family’s health.
The good news is that a few simple habits can help reduce your risk:
Wash all fruits and vegetables thoroughly under cool running water before eating, cutting, or cooking them.
Scrub firm produce, such as melons, cucumbers, and potatoes, with a clean produce brush.
Dry produce with a clean paper towel after washing.
Keep fresh produce separate from raw meat, poultry, and seafood to prevent cross-contamination.
Refrigerate perishable fruits and vegetables promptly after bringing them home.
So, this August, skip the grocery store and explore your local farmers market instead. You'll come home with fresh ingredients, new recipe ideas, and memories that last long after the season is over.
Pairing those fresh finds with safe food-handling practices helps ensure every meal is as healthy as it is delicious.
