Bureau of Markets
Farmers' Markets
Consumer frequently asked questions
Q. What is a farmers' market?
A. A farmers' market consists of a group of farmers who have come together
collectively to market their products directly to the consumer. At the
farmers' markets you will meet the growers who produce your food.
Q. I have never shopped at a farmers' market before, what can I expect
to find at a farmers' market?
A. At the farmers' market expect to find a festive atmosphere and a
wide array of fresh vegetables and fruits. You may also find baked goods,
maple products, honey, eggs, farmstead cheeses, apple cider, jams and
jellies, flowers, and even turkey and meats. Each farmers market consists
of different growers so availability of these items varies from market
to market and the time of year.
Q. When and where are Massachusetts farmers' markets held?
A. Massachusetts's farmers' markets are seasonal. Some markets open in
May and close at Thanksgiving, while others open in June or July and finish
at the end of October. For a schedule, click
here.
Q. How do I store the fruits and vegetables to keep
them fresh?
A. Storage tips
Q. I bought too much; do you have any recipe ideas
using fresh vegetables or fruit?
A. Recipes for Massachusetts-grown items
Q. I am concerned about the nutrition for my family
and myself. Where can I find out more?
A. Nutrition information of fruit and vegetables.
Q. How can I find out if I am eligible to receive
farmers' market coupons?
A. Massachusetts farmers' market coupons are
distributed to women and children in the WIC Program, as well as eligible
seniors and other individuals. Click the link that follows to get more
information on the WIC Program. Otherwise, call David Webber at
617-626-1754 for more information.
Q. I received some farmers' market coupons. How
do I use them?
A. Farmers' market coupons are used like cash with participating farmers'
at certified farmers' markets. Look for the "Farmers' Market Coupons
Accepted" sign at individual farmers' stalls at the market. If
you do not see the sign just ask the grower if he/she participates in
the program. No change is given for the coupons, so be sure to use the
full amount of every coupon with each purchase.
Q. I am not satisfied with
a product or a service received. What can I do?
Q. How can I start a farmers' market in my community?
A. The Massachusetts Department of Agricultural Resources has resources
and information to get you started. Click
here for more information.
Q. I am a farmer and looking for some farmers' markets
to participate in. Where can I find a list?
A. List of markets with contact information[PDF].
Q. I am a farmer who sells at a Massachusetts farmers'
market. How can I get certified to accept farmers' market coupons?
A. Call Lisa Damon at 617-626-1731 for an application or email Lisa.Damon@state.ma.us.
Q. What permits are needed to sell at a farmers'
market?
A. Guidlines from
Massachusetts Department of Public Health
www.mass.gov/Eeohhs2/docs/dph/environmental/foodsafety/farmer_market_guidelines.pdf
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