The Farmers Market is an inviting place for picking up fresh fruits and vegetables. 

This summer, in addition to picking up some homegrown food, you can pick up some research-based knowledge as well. 

The University of Tennessee – Tennessee State University Extension in Warren County will be at the Farmers Market offering food demonstrations, recipes and samples on Wednesdays. A booth will be set up this coming Wednesday, June 26, and be available for the next eight Wednesdays.

At the booth information will be provided on the selection and storage of the flavorful fruit and vegetables available at the market. The demonstrations and outreach are part of an Extension program called Farmers Market Fresh.

According to Dr. Christopher Sneed with UT Extension, the objective of Farmers Market Fresh is to encourage purchasing fresh fruits and vegetables.

“We are particularly interested in helping limited-resource families, especially those receiving senior vouchers or EBT/SNAP, to have access to fresh fruits and vegetables at the Farmers Market,” said Sneed. “We hope our presence at the market, along with the food demonstrations, tastings, and activities will encourage people to check out all the market has to offer.”

Workers at the booth will offer the best ways to select and store summertime favorites. The best part of the program – each person who stops by the booth will receive a recipe card for the food being demonstrated that day. 

At the end of the season, consumers could have an entire collection of recipes all featuring fresh items from the Farmers Market. Salad, salsa, and dip samples and recipes will be available.  

“Summer in Tennessee can be hot so we wanted foods that were cool, refreshing, and delicious,” said Dr. Janie Burney of UT Extension. “And, it just so happens they are all really good for you as well.”

Grown-ups are not the only ones who will enjoy a stop by the Farmers Market Fresh booth. The young ones are sure to enjoy a sample of the food prepared. In addition, they will be able to participate in a children’s challenge. 

Through the challenge, they are able to earn prizes while looking for fruits and vegetables. To participate, all you need to do is stop by the Farmers Market Fresh booth for all the details.

“We are glad to offer this food program,” said Hilda Lytle of UT TSU Extension Warren County. “It’s wonderful to be partnering with the Farmers Market to focus on foods, cooking skills, and healthy eating. Program assistant Kerry Mullican and I will set up at the market for eight Wednesdays starting June 26. Hours will be from 7:30 to 10:30 a.m., or until we run out of supplies, whichever comes first.  

For more information, UT Extension can be reached at 473-8484.