When it comes to buying groceries, people look for sales at supermarkets and grocery stores. There, they can check the quality and freshness of every product. They do this instead of buying fresh produce the local farmer’s market (also known as “Plaza de Mercado”) or buyingit directly from the farmers. Doing this would ensure the consumer produce of excellent quality. In this article, I will explain why buying fresh produce can benefit local businesses and the consumer.
Here is a list of the benefits of buying produce in local businesses:
The quality of the Produce is higher
Some grocery stores do not offer their clients fresh produce and offer already packaged products; this is a major cause of the accumulation of plastic waste and it decreases the quality of the produce. However, the “Plaza de Mercado” and a few local grocery stores offer their clients the option of choose fresh products and can pack them in their own reusable bags or use biodegradable plastic bags provided by the store. You get more product for a great price In local businesses, the customer can buy their fresh produce and local products in bulk for a great price. Some people decide to conserve their fruits and vegetables in the freezer or make fresh sauces and some delicious snacks like tostones and keep them in the fridge. This way the produce does not go to waste.
They’re great for your health
Most of the fresh vegetables and fruits from local farms are chemical free and a great source of vitamins and rich in nutrients. Also, some of the local commerce sells homemade and fully organic products like jelly spread, honey, and sofrito; which is so important for the people who have a specific diet or just want to eat healthy.
It supports the local economy
According to economist José Alameda, consuming local products not only helps in creating jobs, but the profits generated from the sale of those products are reused to encourage the agricultural industry.
Customer service
The owners and their employees of local businessestreat customers like they’re part of their family. They even recommend some of their products, share some of their own food recipes, and have nice conversations with their clients. Some of them, even give an extra vegetable or fruit for free.
In conclusion, supporting local businesses is important to our island’s economy and an essential key to keep the community alive. Employees and owners are incredibly helpful during emergency times and they bring local products that are made by people in the community who are starting their own small business. In my opinion, we need to support more the local businesses because some of them are at risk of close their doors forever because of the lack of clients; which is very important to keep any business alive. Don’t forget to visit your favorite “Plaza de Mercado” and support them with your purchase because fresh produce tastes delicious when it comes straight from a local farm.