My family and I love our weekly shop at Adelaides' largest farmers market @Adelcentralmarket .
We gather our bits and pieces to supplement the food I’m unable to grow at home.
Here’s the thing, buying purely organic produce can be taxing on the weekly budget and not all of us can grow enough in the garden to sustain the family diet. The good news is, thanks to farmers markets blossoming worldwide (that’s so awesome), we are able to have access to fresh, local and high quality fruit and veg. You can get very close to organic food at a fraction of the cost if you know what to look for.
In the picture, you can see my friend Rom. He’s a local farmer that grows a huge percentage of what he sells - and he’s an absolute legend to boot. Look a little further at the pics I’ve attached and you can see some critical information given on the produce labels that can help you discern what to purchase.
TIPS FOR BUYING HIGH QUALITY PRODUCE - AS CLOSE TO ORGANIC AS YOU'LL GET
Especially with fruit, you want to look for two key things. Australian grown is a must, local if possible is the best. In addition, look for a sign that states ‘new season’. This means the fruit is currently growing locally. If this information is not available on the sign or crossed out, it’s likely that they are out of season and have been kept in storage. Basically meaning the Prana and nutrient value (in Ayurvedic terms) is much lower.
Chemical, spray and pesticide free is what you want to see on signs - especially with leafy greens and herbs. Unfortunately so much of our food is laden with chemicals but as Rom will always say, chemicals are so expensive and he grows without them to simply save costs and the environment too.
Check for signs of fresh produce. No wilting, bright colours, vibrant skins, unwaxed and firm.
Look for pricing. Any produce that is abundant and cheap generally means that it is currently in season and locally supplied.
DISCLAIMER
The sole purpose of these articles is to provide information about the science of Ayurveda. If you have an acute or chronic health concern, please consult your chosen trained health care professional who can fully assess your needs and address them effectively. If you are seeking the medical advice of a qualified Ayurvedic Practitioner, contact The Sattva Centre directly - info@thesattvacentre.com
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