Shop Smart at Farmers' Markets
l Buy only the amount you can use in a short period of time.
l Look for produce that’s free from unusual odors or colors and signs of spoilage.
l Handle produce gently to reduce bruising. Bacteria can thrive in the bruised areas.
l When buying cut produce, keep it cold during transport.
l Wash your hands for at least 20 seconds with soap and water before handling produce.
l Wash all fruits and vegetables with cool running tap water right before eating. Don't use dish soap or detergent because the FDA hasn’t approved or labeled these products for use on foods.
l Scrub melons with a brush and running water, because bacteria can be transferred from the outside of the melon to the inside by a knife.
l Cut away bruised parts before eating. Remove the outer leaves from lettuce and cabbage.
l Keep fresh cut produce cold by placing serving containers on ice. Perishable food should spend no more than two hours in the "danger zone" (40 to 140oF).
l Store produce in containers that are free from excess liquid.
l Refrigerate cut produce and use within a few days.
My $.02
Excellent health and fitness all begins and ends at the grocery store. Fruits and vegetables, whole grains (more than 3g fiber on label), lean protein, good fats (avocado, olive oil...etc.) are the only categories we need in the cart or to eat anytime for that matter. Don't stuff yourself. Is this how you eat?
Make it a habit to remind yourself as you walk into the grocery store that the things you stock in your kitchen are going to make you or break you. Starting at the farmer's market and ending at the grocery store to fill in the odds and ends is best. Here is the Santa Barbara County breakdown from Google AI:
Santa Barbara has six Certified Farmers' Markets operating six days a week, offering fresh produce, local goods, and more. These markets are located in various areas, including Montecito, Santa Barbara Downtown, Goleta, Old Town Santa Barbara, Solvang, and Carpinteria. The market days and times vary, with some markets operating in the morning and others in the afternoon.
Here's a breakdown of the markets and their schedules:
Montecito: Fridays, 8 AM - 11:15 AM
Santa Barbara Downtown: Saturdays, 8 AM - 1 PM
Goleta: Sundays, 10 AM - 2 PM
Solvang: Wednesdays, 2:30 PM - 6:00 PM
Carpinteria: Thursdays, 2:30 PM - 6:00 PM
Old Town Santa Barbara: Tuesdays, 3 PM - 6:30 PM
And Now my real question is...Don't we still have a farmer's market in Lompoc on Fridays? 2pm in oldtown right? Going to have to check it out this Friday!! Reply with the details if there is a good story :)