Commentary, Opinion

August is prime time for accessing seasonal produce at farmer’s markets

August 6, 2026   ·   0 Comments

How often have you thrown out produce you bought only a few days ago?  One of the best ways to avoid that waste is to shop at a local farmers’ market. 

It’s August and prime harvest time. Take advantage of the abundance and variety of vegetables and fruits sold at the markets. 

Food from area farms is fresh, meaning it tastes better and lasts longer. Supermarket food is often picked prematurely, sprayed with chemicals to maintain freshness, travels long distances and has long storage times. Buying at a local Farmer’s Market gives us access to nutrient-dense, peak-ripeness produce, thereby increasing our intake of vitamins and antioxidants.

When we shop local, we keep farmers farming. Every purchase supports farm families, helping them continue to grow food, care for the land and contribute to our local economy.  

Markets act as retail hubs for small-scale producers who can’t meet supermarket minimums, keeping profits directly in the hands of farmers.

Farmgate sales are also a great way to source local food. Many farms sell their products at the end of their laneway or from their home. Many operate on an honour system, so please be kind.

Farmer markets provide significant climate benefits. Food typically travels less than 40 kilometres to reach a local market, significantly reducing transportation emissions compared to standard supermarket foods, which can travel thousands of kilometres. 

Local farms encourage regenerative agricultural practices like cover cropping and minimal tillage. These sustainable practices sequester carbon, reduce soil erosion and improve soil health.

Tired of fighting with a plastic-wrapped cucumber? Local vendors reduce waste by using less plastic, often opting for biodegradable packaging. Better yet, bring along your reusable cloth bag for loose produce. 

Buying at a farmer’s market encourages seasonal eating, reducing the need for energy-intensive hothouses and refrigerated, long-haul shipping. 

While we all like strawberries year-round, they are best enjoyed locally at the peak of the summer season. They offer superior nutrition and better taste and texture than the flavourless berries that have travelled long distances and are packaged in plastic. 

Aligning our diets with nature’s harvests can also substantially lower our grocery bills, as produce is often abundant and cheaper when in season.

How often do you get face-to-face with the person who grows your food? Markets are a great chance to ask questions about how the food is grown. Farmers are passionate about growing delicious, healthy food and will happily talk your ear off about how they grow the juiciest tomatoes. Markets are also an opportunity to discuss issues such as genetically modified foods and fair pricing for agricultural products. 

Simcoe County is home to many farmers’ markets. Tottenham, Creemore, Innisfil and Bradford all offer a small-town welcoming experience. The Barrie Farmer’s Market runs year-round.

Farmers’ markets are not only environmentally friendly but also support local economies and farm families. And best of all, they offer high-quality food that just tastes great! Pack your reusable bags and check out a market near you over the coming weeks. Feel the love. August is prime time.

This week’s Community Voice article was written by Louise Montague of Greys for Green in New Tecumseth. She is interested in helping others learn how to make sustainable living the norm. Contact Greys For Green to learn more at contactus@greysforgreen.org.

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