The benefits of shopping local

This is a submitted editorial from health coach and author Claire Nielsen

Long before the existence of big supermarket and department store chains, people bought locally and traded their wares and services with their neighbours and community. With the introduction of cross-border importation and widespread economies of scale, the large chains moved in, took over, and eventually became mainstream.

I have really appreciated the existence of small independent stores offering local products but I have witnessed too many of these stores fail since Covid, and whenever I see another empty local building or store it breaks my heart.

However, it seems that Farmers’ Markets are gaining in popularity, being reminiscent of the shopping experience of yesteryear. Local markets offer a wealth of benefits beyond fresh food and locally made items. Unlike imported mass-produced grocery store items, local products are often healthier, being cultivated with environmentally responsible practices. Here’s why the choice to buy Farmers’ Market or locally grown items is a great decision for your health:

Higher Nutritional Value – Unlike supermarket fruits and vegetables, which are often picked early to withstand long-distance shipping, local produce is picked at peak ripeness so retains more vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that support overall health.

No (or fewer) Pesticides and Harmful Chemicals – Many local farmers use organic or low-spray farming methods, meaning their produce contains no (or less) pesticides, herbicides, and synthetic fertilizers. Reducing exposure to these chemicals has been linked to a lower risk of chronic diseases, including cancer, hormonal imbalances, and neurological disorders. Local produce doesn’t contain preservatives and wax coatings, found on imported produce, that can interfere with digestion and health.

Richer in Antioxidants and Phytochemicals – Locally grown fruits and vegetables, especially heirloom varieties, tend to have higher concentrations of antioxidants and phytochemicals, which are natural compounds that help combat inflammation and oxidative stress, while lowering the risk of chronic diseases like heart disease and diabetes. Fresh seasonal food is more flavourful which encourages healthy eating of a balanced, whole, unprocessed diet. This leads to better weight management, improved digestion, and reduced risk of chronic illnesses.

Food Safety and Reduced Contamination Risks – Locally sourced food has fewer handling points, reducing the risk of bacterial contamination from sources like E. coli and Salmonella, which are more present in large-scale mass processed industrial farms, supply chains and transportation systems. Small scale meat farmers also tend to be more humane in the handling of their animals.

A Sustainable and Eco-Friendly Choice – Buying local and from Farmer’s Markets reduces reliance on food grown with synthetic chemicals, supports soil health, and lowers carbon emissions associated with long-haul transportation.

The Social Benefit – Local and Farmer’s Markets are great places to catch up with those we haven’t seen in a while, or to do a weekly check in. The Prince George Market supports the social scene with live music, a coffee bar, special events, draws, community involvement and other creative ways to connect with the Prince George community. And where else can you meet the producer of your groceries, ask questions, get an education and find out what’s new.

Finding Something Special – As many makers, bakers & growers who sell at Farmer’s Markets have had to compete with mass-produced products for years, they generally offer niche products of higher quality. The PG Farmer’s Market and Q3 Market are year-round markets at 3rd and Quebec (downtown) and are great one-stop shopping destinations as they offers a wide variety of interesting products including: farm raised meat, fresh eggs, all kinds of local produce (including micro-greens, mushrooms and fruit), fresh roasted coffee, handmade natural soaps and lotions, fresh baked bread and other baked goodies, preserves, art, jewellery, leatherworks, health tonics and artisan teas, woolen and fibre products, prepared ethnic foods, gifts, honey, candles, seasonal flowers, fruit and flower baskets, handmade children’s clothes, tie-died clothes, scarves, dog coats & cooling pads, dog treats, Indian spices, black-smithed items, wooden artisan products, soups, craft spirits, gluten-free crackers, y.a. books, bannock, and many more items (especially in the spring/summer). In the summer season, there are also other local markets, including WS Market at 3rd and George. Markets and seasonal fairs are great destinations for Christmas or other gift shopping – finding that unique present for someone special.

Support Local in the Face of Trade Wars – Supporting our local farmers, food producers, bakers and makers helps our local economies and ensures a long-term access to food and other products. With tariffs looming, imported food costs are going to increase drastically. With the threat of trade wars and economic tensions between Canada and the United States, the importance of buying Canadian has never been clearer. The trade disputes have exposed the vulnerabilities of relying too heavily on international markets and prove the need to strengthen our domestic economy. By choosing locally made products (there are apps that show whether a product is Canadian made) and supporting Canadian businesses, we can protect our industries, create jobs, and ensure a more stable future for all Canadians. Let’s stick together and ride this out.

The potential for a great experience at a Farmers’ Market keeps us coming back. Please support local.

Claire Nielsen is a health coach, author, public speaker and founder of www.elixirforlife.ca.

The information provided in the above article is for educational purposes.