When you look at the larger issues surrounding the push to get people to buy local foods, one of the largest debates rages around weather local foods are ... well, elitist. Many have argued that the greater cost associated with locally grown organic produce keeps lower income people from being able to have access to this arguably "better" food source. On top of the greater upfront cost, many farmers markets and farm stands do not accept non-cash payments for their wares, not to mention no way to accommodate customers who receive food stamps.
Well- As of tomorrow, August 3d, if you have access to the Portland Maine Farmers Market, at least some of this argument will no longer be an issue. Thanks to grant funding, the market now offers tokens that market shoppers can purchase with their credit, debit, or food stamp cards that can be used with most of their vendors. Check out the full article from the Portland Press Herald here:
...and in celebration of the deluge of tomatoes that is overtaking the farmers markets, one of my very favorite blogs to look at when I'm hungry: Canal House Cooks Lunch. A picture a day of what lunch looks like at this super fresh-local foods focused restaurant in New Jersey. This week, they've been just as tomato happy as I have been. Bon Appetite!
