How Organic is the Produce at Farmers Markets?

If you are looking for certified organic produce it’s not easy. The term organic has become so synonymous with higher nutrition and higher prices that it has brought out the worst of sellers—greed.

There is a difference between certified organic produce and produce grown using organic methods. Certified organic is regulated by the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) and organic methods are not. Produce grown with organic growing methods is still a good choice but it should be labeled as such.

And while farmers markets are a great source of local and organic fruits and vegetables, the two terms are not necessarily interchangeable. Just because an apple is certified organic it does not mean it is local to the area.

It can be hard and confusing deciding where to buy. There could be dozens of colorful booths with fresh fruits and vegetables to choose from. Some will have banners upfront saying where they are from and some will not. Few will have their credentials displayed.

So, how do you know who you are buying from? Ask.

Once you have figured out who you are talking to, say a farmer advertising organic produce, then ask “Who is your certifier?” This is an important question and their reaction will determine if you stay or move onto the next stall.

If they are legitimate, they will immediately tell you and you can do business with them. If they act confused, then it is time to move on.

Buying organic produce from a farmers market does not guarantee you are buying certified organic produce. So ask a lot of questions. Don’t be afraid to go to as many stalls as you need until you are satisfied with the answer to the question of who their certifier is.

For more information certified organic go to http://www.ams.usda.gov/AMSv1.0/nop

PMA's Fresh Summit question continues

I found a partial answer to my question "Why is there a disconnect between Florida Farmers and Florida Consumers," at the 2010 Fresh Summit. But it was more complicated than I anticipated, involving four if not five reasons.  I will be writing further on this with references to a workshop I attended (at Fresh Summit)called "Keeping it Local: The Pros and Cons of Local Sourcing."

Florida Wine, Tasting event at Seminole Inn in Indiantown, Florida

In April, Seminole Inn decided to start a wine tasting series called a "Year of Wines," featuring Florida Wines. 

Tastings are on the first Saturday of the month, at 6 pm, and feature one winery at a time. After the tasting their is an optional dinner, at an additional fee, showcasing the wines in a gourmet meal. 

This month the featured wine was from Eden Winery and Vineyard in Alva, Florida. The wines sampled were Lake Emerald (white, light oak), Alva Rouge (red, medium dry), Alva White (white, slightly sweet), Coral Bell (blush with sweet nose and slightly sweet taste), Eden Stars (white, made with star fruit, least popular of the night), and Eden Spice (Red with sweet, tropical fruit punch like taste).

The Alva White was combined with orange zest to make a very delightful vinaigrette to top the spring mix salad (with cherry tomatoes and blue cheese chunks).

The Alva Rouge and Eden Stars were used in the main course as a reduction poured over a grilled chicken breast and pan seared salmon fillet.  These were less successful at impressing the pallet and their unique flavor got lost in the Au gratin potatoes and asparagus sides.

The Eden Stars made another appearance in the dessert course again as a reduction but this time combined with honey.  A small apple pie tartlet accompanied, topped with a tiny scoop of vanilla ice cream.

Call for pricing and reservations at 772-597-3777 or email seminolein@aol.com

@)!% Update the Eden Winery is now closed and the Seminole Inn no longer has this style of wine tasting dinners.