Message from Councilwoman Elizabeth Stamler | May 2, 2023
It is a constant reminder every time we go to the supermarket: groceries are a lot more expensive during this era of high inflation.
In fact, according to the Consumer Price Index compiled by the federal Bureau of Labor Statistics, the cost of at-home eating has jumped by 12.2% since June 2021. And the cost of going out to a restaurant has shown no relief, as business owners also feel the big pinch.
To cut costs, you may think that farmers’ markets are a bit of a luxury, assuming that fresh produce from local farms must be more expensive than what you find in the supermarket. But, because of inflation, prices between the two have become more and more comparable.
I welcome you to see for yourself, when Scotch Plains opens its farmers market this Saturday, May 6, to mark the 31st season of fresh produce, baked goods and special finds. It all takes place, once again, in our municipal parking lot, 430 Park Ave. from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Scotch Plains was one of the very first towns in New Jersey to host a farmers’ market, back in 1992. Since then, we have seen many of our neighboring towns, as well as communities we visit at the Jersey Shore, follow our lead. There’s no doubt that these local markets have enormous health, economic and environmental benefits, while also serving as a wonderful community gathering spot.
I know many people (like me) who eagerly await Saturday mornings to take their dogs to the farmers’ market, greet friends and see what is new for sale this week in Scotch Plains. We are proud to host thousands of township residents, as well as visitors, during our weekly event, which runs annually through the first frosts of November.`
Scotch Plains has one of the most popular Farmers’ Market around, celebrating three decades of Jersey Fresh, local produce with our full roster of the "Best of the Best" vendors. It’s all well managed by the Scotch Plains Business & Professional Association.
Another of the tremendous benefits of a farmers’ market is the benefit of fruits and vegetables that go from a Jersey farm to Scotch Plains within 24 hours. I’ve learned that the nutrients in our produce oxidize over time and lose value as days go by.
Unlike a farmers’ market, supermarket fruits and vegetables can take much longer to arrive for customers, especially as many of the items can come from far outside of New Jersey. And there may be additives to keep the produce fresher for a longer period.
For the items sold here every Saturday morning, there is no need to put toxins or waxes on the produce to keep it fresh. Moreover, you can often speak directly to the farmers who planted the seeds, and nurtured the fruits and vegetables that are being offered directly to you. I urge you to build relationships and share your preferences with these pros, many of whom are from farm families that have been feeding generations of New Jerseyans.
Our experienced vendors are eager to please, and can share some tips about how you can grow your very own, perfect Jersey tomatoes or blueberries. I don’t know how a supermarket could even come close to offering the same benefit.
So, join me in supporting the Farmers’ Market this spring, as we welcome back many of our farmers and say “hi” to new vendors who wisely are setting up shop in Scotch Plains at our diverse marketplace. Together, we are preserving New Jersey’s rural livelihoods, stimulating the agricultural economy and increasing easy access to fresh, nutritious food in Scotch Plains.
