Food Safety at Farmers Markets: What to look for

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Ripe and ready to enjoy produce is easier in the summer, thanks in large part to farmer’s markets. These markets are an excellent opportunity to visit with local farmers and learn more about your food. Plus, it’s more fun than shopping at the grocery store. But whether purchasing food inside a store or outside at a market, consumers should be aware of good food safety practices to ensure the products’ quality and safeness is maintained.

Here are some tips to look for:

Fresh produce	Should be clean, look fresh, no cuts or nicks Displayed off the ground/floor
Cut or peeled produce	Displayed on/ surrounded by ice Look fresh and cold
Meats, eggs, cheeses	Package must feel cold; product in cooler/ on ice Eggs- carton and eggs should be clean, not cracked, and cool
Milk	Must be pasteurized (Kansas regulation) – ask vendor to confirm
Juice, cider	Pasteurized is safest
Hot prepared foods	Would like to see vendor using thermometer Should have a lid, see steam rising from pan
Handwashing	Seeing vendors washing their hands See a handwashing station in booth (particularly prepared foods)
Booth, personal cleanliness	Surfaces of booth, knives, other utensils clean Clean clothes, hands, no wiping nose, etc.
Certifications	Look for any posted food safety certifications/ trainings attended
All products	Ask vendors about their food safety practices

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Family and Consumer Sciences Agent