Hello
everyone! We hope you will join us for
the next delicious Pathfinder Produce fresh foods market at the Village Commons
on Thursday, from noon to 5 p.m. Our friendly staff looks forward to helping
you with your shopping needs … and don’t forget about our online
ordering option!
This week we’re
in the official countdown to the Splash Path 5k and Fun Walk, which takes place
on Saturday, May 18. Sign up online at splashpath.racewire.com
before May 11 to lock-in your early registration fees. A huge thanks goes out
to all our sponsors
and community partners who contribute to this fun and colorful event …
THANK YOU! Check out more Splash Path
details at our website or on our Facebook event page.
Below, my
colleague Sally Trosset shares some good advice on meal planning, shopping, and
budgeting, essential skills that every consumer should develop.
***
With
careful planning and smart shopping, you can make the most out of your budget
to include fruits and vegetables in all your meals. Produce items can also be
an excellent value if you plan accordingly. Preparing meals and eating at home
is another way to save money, plus it gives you the opportunity to enjoy meals
with your family.
Many
times, we are too busy to do that, unfortunately. How do we conquer this? Plan
ahead! By planning you'll save time in the long run and be less likely to
resort to pre-prepared or takeout food that always costs more. Start by making a shopping list and stick to it
to avoid spending money on unnecessary items.
As
we head into the summer months when many fruits and vegetables are readily
available, there is nothing wrong with including frozen, canned or dried forms
of fruit and vegetables on your list. They are also nutritious and good
pantry/freezer items to have on hand for a quick meal. There are many
ways to get the most bang for your buck. Try planning
meals around fruits and vegetables that have a longer shelf life.
Include fruits and vegetables that can be used as a side dish in one meal or as
quick snacks, or in smoothies, soups or a casserole for additional meals during
the week.
One
of the best ways to save when buying fresh fruits and vegetables is to buy in
season. In season means there is a
larger supply which in turn makes these foods less expensive. When at the
market, pay attention to the specials and buy extra (but not too much, as
spoiled items are frustrating and wasteful). Many fruits and vegetables can be
frozen, or you can prepare a dish to be frozen for another time. Keeping a storage
chart on hand also helps advice on how best to store most fruits and
vegetables.
Another
way to save money is to grow your own fruit and vegetables. A harvest
calendar can help you plant your edible garden on the best dates.
Planting your garden involves three
steps, planning, preparation and
planting. While it takes some effort to maintain, gardening can be a great
family activity. You may even find that
kids will take more of an interest in foods they have helped grow! Gardening is also a great way for kids to
learn about the environment, it captures their interest in nature, and gives
them a sense of accomplishment all while introducing them to healthy foods!
Having
fruits and vegetables on hand doesn’t need to break
the bank! Careful planning can go
a long way, and remember all forms count toward your daily eating goals! Look for weekly specials throughout the
grocery store and stop by Pathfinder Produce on Thursdays from 12-5 to see our
fresh bounty!
Happy
Spring!
Sally
(and Lori)
