One of the best parts about summer is that local farmers markets are in full swing. Purchasing produce from farmers markets has numerous benefits for the producer, consumer, and even the environment. Additional products such as homemade baked goods, honey, potted herbs, baskets of flower, bars of soap, and other interesting items may also be available. Furthermore, all of these items are brought to you to by producers within your community, so supporting them helps your local economy flourish. Here are 15 reasons why you should support farmers markets this summer.

1. Farm fresh produce

The fruits and vegetables you purchase from farmers markets are going to be much fresher than what you would find in the grocery store since the produce did not have to travel several days prior to being stocked in shelves.

2. Better taste

The freshest produce yields the most flavorful taste.

3. Less plastic waste

Bring your own canvas shopping totes to carry home all the farm fresh goodies.

4. Increased consumer knowledge

You know exactly where your food is coming from and who helped it get to this point.

5. Seasonal products

It is better to buy produce when it's in-season. Farmers markets will only have the produce that is in-season, so you know that you are getting fruits and vegetables at their prime growing time.

6. Meet the producers

One of the coolest aspects of farmers markets is you get to meet the friendly people who grow the fruits and vegetables that you will eat, nurture the plants and flowers before they are yours, and create the unique products that you will soon be using. These passionate producers are more than happy to greet you and answer any questions that you may pose.

7. Social environment

Farmers markets are vibrantly bustling with life and happy customers of all ages.

8. Supports the local economy

By purchasing your products from farmers markets, you are providing the valuable capital that the small businesses and local entrepreneurs need to keep their operations thriving.

9. Products that you cannot get in stores

Every farmer has their specialty that offers a broad range of uniqueness in comparison to the ordinary products that line the grocery store shelves.

10. Conserves energy

Since the products available at farmers markets do not have to travel thousands of miles away, like the products at larger grocery stores have to, then there is a significant saving on the fuel necessary for shipping to get the local produce from the farm to your table. Additionally, farmers markets are set up outside and do not require electricity or heating like conventional grocery stores.

11. Enjoy the fresh air

Shopping and soaking up the sunshine

12. Promotes the humane treatment of animals

Animal products such as meats, cheeses, and eggs can be purchased from farmers who have raised their animals without the use of hormones or antibiotics, fed a healthy diet, and provided a comfortable space to live.

13. Learn care tips

Your local farmer will be more than happy to share their insight about how to best take care of their plants that you are purchasing.

14. Affordable organic fruits and veggies

Many farmers participating in the local markets use organic methods to grow their produce.

15. Variety

Farmers markets offer a wide variety of items as each producer has their own unique method for growing.