The pandemic has definitely taken a toll on our day-to-day practices, but certain things have changed for the better in some way or another. Hey, it won’t hurt to look at the positive side for once, right?

Hobbies have transitioned into businesses, be it in the artistic field or the skills arena. For instance, there are many people who’ve started growing vegetables and garnishes (mint, lemongrass, etc.) in their backyards and gardens. What a smart choice! Fresh garden produce undoubtedly tastes different, which is why so many people have ditched grocery stores and shook hands with farm-fresh produce. Not only does this promote the whole “farm to table” idea, it’s also light on the pocket.

Shelley Pauls/Unsplash | Post the pandemic, people have started turning to farmer’s market for healthier produce, and it’s also cheaper

Don’t agree with us? Well, try out these tips the next time you visit a farmer’s market, and let us know how much you saved!

#1 Wait for the right time of the season

Fresh seasonal fruits and vegetables are quite affordable at the grocery stores when it's the peak of the season. But did you know that at your regular farmers' market, you can find them at dirt cheap prices almost all year round? Just look for the right opportunity and take a step in.

Large bags of carrots or strawberries can become tremendous bargains at times when farmers need to unload their produce quickly. You can easily get 12 strawberry baskets for $20, which is a tremendous price difference as compared to the off-season or grocery store prices. And the best part is that strawberries are super sweet and juicy. Mmmm, they taste like heaven!

Brooke Cagle/Unsplash | Fresh seasonal fruits and veggies can be found at dirt cheap prices at farmer’s markets

#2 Purchase in bulk

Bulk deals provide you with better prices and discounts. There are many vendors who provide huge discounts if you make a bulk purchase. But if you do so, have you considered how you’ll consume so many groceries before they go bad? Well, we have an idea! Why not share it with neighbors and distribute the costs equally?! Trust us, it's a win-win deal for everyone. You and your neighbors get to eat farm-fresh produce at such a low price. What else could you want?

#3 Go for the ugly produce

Wait, it’s not what you think! By ugly here, we mean the products that are overripe, slightly bruised, or spotted. While it may sound weird, the truth is that such produce can still be used for making jams, pickles, sauces, or even your everyday breakfast smoothies. You'll see apples with issues or peaches with soft spots. And you know what! They can be used in making the best apple pies and peach jams. So, the next time you visit a farmer's market, look for the ugly produce. It'll save you so much money and still taste the same.

Anton Luzhkovsky/Unsplash | Slightly bruised, overripe, or spotted produce can be bought for the purpose of making jams, sauces, and pickles

Wrap up

Do you know what the most interesting part about shopping at the farmer's market is? The produce here is freshly picked, which is why it lasts longer as compared to grocery store items. When you shop at a farmers market, you know what you're putting in your body. You eat fresh, you feel fresh and you look flawless. What else do we need in life, right?