Farmers Market Fun!
Choosing to eat more vegetables and fruits is easier with WIC and SNAP. Learn the differences in how to use your WIC and SNAP benefits below. Once you know more about how to use them, you will be able to have fun shopping for veggies and fruits and other local foods. At many farmers markets, you can buy what is in season and even pick up some organic! You can purchase produce at its peak flavor. Find fresh, nutritious, unprepared, locally grown fruits, vegetables, and herbs through authorized farmers markets and roadside stands. Support your local growers and small farms. That way they can continue to offer you fresh wholesome foods.

Mom and child at farmers market

Using Your Benefits at the Farmers Market!

WIC
Most states participate in the WIC Farmers Market Nutrition Program or FMNP. FMNP coupons are given in addition to your other WIC benefits and can be used at authorized markets. To learn if your state and local agency participate in the Farmers Market Nutrition Program, call your local WIC office. 

SNAP
Many farmers markets accept SNAP EBT for fresh fruits and vegetables. Some states give rewards like extra dollar value for using SNAP at the farmers markets. 


Eat Seasonally! 
Summer, Fall, Winter, Spring. Different seasons bring a variety of fruits and vegetables. Variety gives you more nutrition and exciting new flavors. At the farmers market, speak to farmers about what is growing now. Why eat seasonally? Vegetables and fruits in season often taste better and cost less. 

What About Organic? 

SNAP benefits can be used to buy organic fruits and vegetables. And, some WIC benefits can be used for organic too.

Because some organic produce can cost more, choosing organic fruits and vegetables takes planning. It may mean:
-- Going to a new supermarket or farmers market.
-- Spending more money for your food.

The good news is, all produce that is offered at your store is safe for you to eat. The best thing you can do is use all your fruit and vegetable dollars at the store. Organic or not organic, an eating pattern rich in fruits and vegetables has great health benefits. If you would like to learn more, take our Be Healthy with Vegetables and Fruits lesson. 

Whether you choose to buy organic or not, be sure to wash all produce before eating. Wash under running tap water to remove dirt, bacteria, or residue. Even wash fruit and vegetables with skin that you will peel and not eat.

Recommendation

For an example of shopping at a farmers market with WIC, watch this video!

Hear what shoppers and growers have to say about shopping at a farmers market with SNAP, in this video!