Table Talk: March 4

Spring forward to local food

By Kim O'Donnel

March 2, 2010

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With spring comes the growing season, and though the weather has been wintry in much of the country, farm fresh food is just around the corner.

This week on Table Talk, Kim O. wanted to know where you’re getting your goods this year: From a CSA? From the farmers’ market? Will you grow your own? Is your supermarket stocking any local produce? Many Walmarts are, you know.

It happened right here, on Thursday, March 4, at 10 a.m. PT, 1 p.m. ET.

Kim, a trained chef and longtime food journalist, will publish a cookbook this fall for people trying to eat less meat. Most Thursdays, she brings ideas, tips, and recipes to her weekly live chats on Table Talk.

Table Talk with Kim O'Donnel - March 4, 2010

(03/04/2010)

  

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9:46	Kim ODonnel:  Where and how do you do your food shopping? That's the fat we'll be chewing on in this week's edition of Table Talk. Join us at the top of the hour! Thursday March 4, 2010 9:46 Kim ODonnel

10:03

Kim ODonnel:  Good morning all. We talk so much about food, but do we talk about where and how we buy it? Culinate's Kim Carlson & I have been pondering this topic of late, and thought you'd like to weigh in, too. Do you find yourself at the supermarket (Safeway, Giant, Albertsons, etc) or at a bigger warehouse store like Costco? Is it farm markets, CSAs or food coops? We wanna know where, how & why. Let's dish. Thursday March 4, 2010 10:03 Kim ODonnel

10:03

[Comment From Jeanne in SeattleJeanne in Seattle: ]  I'm here! Thursday March 4, 2010 10:03 Jeanne in Seattle

10:04

Kim ODonnel:  Hey Jeanne, glad to you have on board today. Where do you find yourself the most when it comes to doing your weekly food run? Or is it more than once a week? Thursday March 4, 2010 10:04 Kim ODonnel

10:05

[Comment From JetersJeters: ]  Hi there :) actually made it today Thursday March 4, 2010 10:05 Jeters

10:05

Kim ODonnel:  Hi Jeters! What's happening in your world? And more specifically, how do you shop & why? Thursday March 4, 2010 10:05 Kim ODonnel

10:05

[Comment From Jeanne in SeattleJeanne in Seattle: ]  We mostly shop at our local food co-op. We also go to our local supermarket for stuff like Kleenex--but usually not food. During the summer, we do a lot of shopping at farmers markets Thursday March 4, 2010 10:05 Jeanne in Seattle

10:06

[Comment From Danielle - PortlandDanielle - Portland: ]  Hi, I do a mix of Trader Joe's and Costco (especially for produce). This year, I plan to grow my own produce and I want make an effort to get to our farmer's markets more often. Thursday March 4, 2010 10:06 Danielle - Portland

10:07

Kim ODonnel:  Good to hear from you, Danielle. What are the pros and cons of shopping at TJs & Costco? Your personal highs/lows? And what has inspired you to think about growing some of your own or doing more of the farmer's mkt thing? Thursday March 4, 2010 10:07 Kim ODonnel

10:08

[Comment From Jill, The Veggie Queen Jill, The Veggie Queen : ]  Hi all, just a quick check-in because I have a meeting but I shop at a local natural foods store and mostly the farmer's market. But I am lucky because i have a year round farmer's market and go rain or shine. Thank goodness no snow. Thursday March 4, 2010 10:08 Jill, The Veggie Queen

10:09

Kim C.:  I read Corby Kummer's recent piece in the Atlantic about Walmart's efforts to stock not only organics but also local produce. We don't have a Walmart nearby so I don't get there very often. Has anyone shopped there recently? Thursday March 4, 2010 10:09 Kim C.

10:09

Kim ODonnel:  Hi Jill! You are probably one of our luckier chatters, given your locale (n. california), but let's hypothetically argue -- if you didn't live somewhere so temperate, what would you do about your weekly goods? Thursday March 4, 2010 10:09 Kim ODonnel

10:11

Kim ODonnel:  Kim C., was just talking to someone about Walmart; she lives in LA, which as you know is huge & incredibly difficult to navigate. As much as she loves the farm markets, the reality is that going to Walmart 15 min from home is a lot easier of a trek than going to a farm market 45 min away. Never really thought about it this way. Thursday March 4, 2010 10:11 Kim ODonnel

10:11

[Comment From Jeters Jeters : ]  I do runs to trader joes on my way home, mostly for milk, yogurt, and pasta/dried goods. I don't buy any produce outside of a farmers market these days. Lucky to have FM with prices cheaper than a grocery store. Thursday March 4, 2010 10:11 Jeters

10:12

Kim ODonnel:  Jeters, you touch on a key point of conversation among folks who argue that farmers' markets are more expensive. Thursday March 4, 2010 10:12 Kim ODonnel

10:13

[Comment From Jill, The Veggie Queen Jill, The Veggie Queen : ]  Kim, I would seek out the most local organics that I could, and grow what I could or can. I sprout regularly which gives me fresh food all year long. I would also go to a coop,. and start one if I needed to (have done it before). TJs will do in a pinch but not my fave. Supporting local is important. My sister in MD belongs to a coop and I'd do that. Thursday March 4, 2010 10:13 Jill, The Veggie Queen

10:13

Kim ODonnel:  Thanks Jill. I hear you on local. In fact, I prefer local over organic, if given the choice. Thursday March 4, 2010 10:13 Kim ODonnel

10:13

[Comment From redweather redweather : ]  is anyone else bothered by ALL THAT PLASTIC that trader joes uses on their produce? i can't bear to buy it from them - i clean up too much styrofoam at my river cleanups to be buying it..... Thursday March 4, 2010 10:13 redweather

10:14

[Comment From Jeanne in Seattle Jeanne in Seattle : ]  I shop at TJs for snack items--crackers and such--but not for other food for the most part. I am uneasy with the way they package their veggies and fruits (in plastic in set amounts)--so much packaging. Thursday March 4, 2010 10:14 Jeanne in Seattle

10:14

Kim C.:  Kim, wrt Walmart, I suspect that's the case for a lot of people — it is the closest option. I'm wrestling with the decision to join a new CSA that I really like the sound of … but hesitate because I have to drive for a half hour each way to get there. Pluses: I get to see the farm each week; minuses: fossil fuel and time. Thursday March 4, 2010 10:14 Kim C.

10:14

Kim ODonnel:  Redweather & Jeanne, that's prob. my main beef about TJs as well. Why seal an individual mango in plastic for crying out loud? Thursday March 4, 2010 10:14 Kim ODonnel

10:15

Kim ODonnel:  Almost wonder whether they should even bother selling fresh produce... Thursday March 4, 2010 10:15 Kim ODonnel

10:16

Kim ODonnel:  Kim C -- I hear you on the drive time for the CSA. And how does it compare to the drive/walk/bike ride to the farm market? We are in such an interesting time/growing pains with our food sheds and how we access our edibles, no? Thursday March 4, 2010 10:16 Kim ODonnel

10:16

[Comment From Danielle - Portland Danielle - Portland : ]  Well, one of the biggest pros for Costco (although some may see it as a con) is the fact that they sell their items in such big quantities. I find that it forces me to eat more veggies because I've got a huge bag of it in the fridge (can't stand to waste food). I would like to see Costco offer more organic produce (and local, it's a local company, right? they should offer more local produce/dairy). I adore TJ's, I only wish there was a store closer to my home, it's not a quick drive from my house, so I don't shop there as often as I like. I think what's motivated me the most for farmer's market is buying local thing. Thursday March 4, 2010 10:16 Danielle - Portland

10:16

[Comment From Erin Erin : ]  I'm here! Thursday March 4, 2010 10:16 Erin

10:16

Kim ODonnel:  Hi Erin from PA! Thursday March 4, 2010 10:16 Kim ODonnel

10:18

Kim ODonnel:  Danielle, it would be huge if Costco could sell more local stuff, yes indeed. One thing that has really changed my habits, particularly spring through late fall, is knowing that farm markets are open several times a week, Makes this kind of shopping a regular part of my week, not just a special occasion. Thursday March 4, 2010 10:18 Kim ODonnel

10:18

[Comment From Jeters Jeters : ]  Kim - most of them are. I work across the street from the Ferry Building for example, and I couldn't even imagine actually buying my weekly groceries there. Thursday March 4, 2010 10:18 Jeters

10:18

[Comment From redweather redweather : ]  ahhhhh... thanks jeanne! Thursday March 4, 2010 10:18 redweather

10:18

[Comment From Danielle - Portland Danielle - Portland : ]  Yeah, I don't understand why TJ's does all that packaging for their produce. Hmmm, I wonder if it would be worth contacting the company to see why and if they are willing to change? Thursday March 4, 2010 10:18 Danielle - Portland

10:18

Kim ODonnel:  It wouldn't hurt, Danielle! Thursday March 4, 2010 10:18 Kim ODonnel

10:19

[Comment From Jeanne in Seattle Jeanne in Seattle : ]  Can I be totally honest: I have never shopped at Walmart. Am uneasy with their hiring, selling, employee practices. Then again, I don't have one near me. But, the big box stores overwhelm me anyway. Thursday March 4, 2010 10:19 Jeanne in Seattle

10:19

[Comment From Jeters Jeters : ]  TJ's is great for dairy, interesting snacks and frozen food, but I steer clear of their produce like the plague. Thursday March 4, 2010 10:19 Jeters

10:19

[Comment From Jeters Jeters : ]  The trick on farmers markets (at least here in the bay area i've found) is to follow the asian grandmothers :) Prices vary wildly and farmers markets in 'upscale' communities are many times more expensive than in others, with little difference in quality. Thursday March 4, 2010 10:19 Jeters

10:19

Kim C.:  To be honest, a new farmers' market is opening less than a mile away — every Thursday. It's probably going to be the best option, realistically. I like the opportunity to talk with farmers at the market, but am delighted too about actually visiting the farm often. Still weighing this one. As for Trader's — the packaging drives me crazy. Like Jeters, I just don't buy much produce there. Thursday March 4, 2010 10:19 Kim C.

10:20

Kim ODonnel:  I love the relationship building that comes with shopping at market or CSA. But yes, then there is the reality. Thursday March 4, 2010 10:20 Kim ODonnel

10:20

[Comment From Jeanne in Seattle Jeanne in Seattle : ]  Kim O: agree with you on TJs produce practices--seems like so much packaging and effort for what they sell in terms of fresh produce! Thursday March 4, 2010 10:20 Jeanne in Seattle

10:20

[Comment From redweather redweather : ]  i live in NoVa, and wish we had more, more affordable farmers markets. i like the one in clarendon, but it's quite expensive. Thursday March 4, 2010 10:20 redweather

10:21

Kim ODonnel:  Redweather, that was my experience in DC -- that the farm mkts are more expensive. Here in Seattle, that is less the case. Thursday March 4, 2010 10:21 Kim ODonnel

10:21

[Comment From redweather redweather : ]  i get a lot of produce at whole foods, but often wonder whether i'm *really* buying anything more wholesome or environmentally sound than what i can get elsewhere, although it often seems fresher. Thursday March 4, 2010 10:21 redweather

10:22

Kim ODonnel:  Great point, redweather. If a zucchini is labeled organic, is it better to buy from Whole Foods or Safeway, for example? Thursday March 4, 2010 10:22 Kim ODonnel

10:22

[Comment From Danielle - Portland Danielle - Portland : ]  So I have heard they are trying to start a co-op in my town (I actually live in Vancouver, WA, basically a suburb of Portland.), how does it differ from a regular grocery store? Thursday March 4, 2010 10:22 Danielle - Portland

10:24

Kim ODonnel:  With a co-op, you will likely have to pay in, as a "member," at least that' s been my understanding from the past. I think this worked for a while, but now there are so many options that this model may have loosened a bit. In the past, members would volunteer a certain number of hours per week at the store, etc as part of their contribution. Thursday March 4, 2010 10:24 Kim ODonnel

10:24

[Comment From Jill, The Veggie Queen Jill, The Veggie Queen : ]  A coop is wonderful because the people who are in it are basically the owners. You have buy in and its more likely that it will be how you want, stocking the items that you want. But it's a lot of work for those in charge. I was on a couple of coop boards -- always interesting. Thursday March 4, 2010 10:24 Jill, The Veggie Queen

10:24

[Comment From Erin Erin : ]  I have to say that I do it all: routine weekly runs to our grocery store(s). Sometimes I will go to Wal-Mart if I'm purchasing something like bottled juice (cheaper price for same brand at grocery store). Meats, salmon, trout and cheeses, I can obtain at our indoor farmer's market, and I rely heavily on them for produce in the summer/fall. I also participate in a group "buying club" from time to time, to get ahold of organic flours, spelt, and other natural-stuffs that I don't find anywhere. Finally, I've turned over my family's leaf and we'll be doing a CSA this summer with a local farm, 5 miles away - if I have my way, I'll also be growing a few things in our yard. Thursday March 4, 2010 10:24 Erin

10:25

Kim ODonnel:  Erin, how do you find the buying club? Is it a good value? Thursday March 4, 2010 10:25 Kim ODonnel

10:25

[Comment From Jeanne in Seattle Jeanne in Seattle : ]  We have CSA options here in Seattle where you can pick up your produce at a convenient and close-by location to your house. Thursday March 4, 2010 10:25 Jeanne in Seattle

10:26

Kim C.:  Jeanne, plenty of those here in PDX too. It's a great option. Thursday March 4, 2010 10:26 Kim C.

10:26

Kim ODonnel:  I was just talking to a friend who told me about a CSA that will drop at a coffee shop in her neighborhood about 15 min from home. Now, is this what I want to do or do I want to drive from market to market to buy my stuff? I'm torn, like Kim C. Thursday March 4, 2010 10:26 Kim ODonnel

10:26

[Comment From Jeters Jeters : ]  I can honestly say I've only been to Walmart once, and that was for sightseeing. But I would love to see other big-box stores taking up the practice of supporting local food. Thursday March 4, 2010 10:26 Jeters

10:27

[Comment From Jill, The Veggie Queen Jill, The Veggie Queen : ]  I am not a Walmart shopper so it's not an option. Here in Northern CA where I live (beautiful Sonoma County) people prefer to support local. I am in that camp. Luckily we have many options. I feel for those who don't and I'm also happy to stay nonjudgmental about what people buy. I stress organics, local and lots of vegetables but we all get to choose. A CSA might be a great way for many. Thursday March 4, 2010 10:27 Jill, The Veggie Queen

10:27

[Comment From Jeanne in Seattle Jeanne in Seattle : ]  Yeah--I agree on the variety of prices at farmer's markets. I get a bit overwhelmed thinking I have to check each stand to see if there are price differences. I think basically, I like simple, local, organic. If you add too much stress or overwhelm I shut down and avoid. Thursday March 4, 2010 10:27 Jeanne in Seattle

10:27

[Comment From Jeters Jeters : ]  It really depends on where you are. Some places a CSA is far and away the cheapest and best option. Others, Farmers markets, and others you just have to find a grocery store with good practices. I avoid Whole foods because I feel that you often pay for the idea of the thing rather than the reality. Thursday March 4, 2010 10:27 Jeters

10:28

Kim ODonnel:  Good last point, Jeters: Paying for the idea rather than the reality. Whole Foods certainly does serve up an experience, no? Thursday March 4, 2010 10:28 Kim ODonnel

10:28

[Comment From Jill, The Veggie Queen Jill, The Veggie Queen : ]  I think that when people say that produce is expensive, they need to think about the real cost of food. And wouldn't you rather hand the $8 per pound for salad mix to the farmer directly or give $6 to Trader Joe's who only pays the farmer 40% as much. I vote for giving the farmer money. Also, the produce is much fresher and that makes it worth it for me. I hate slimy salad mix and vegetables that go bad quickly == and all that packaging. Thursday March 4, 2010 10:28 Jill, The Veggie Queen

10:28

Kim ODonnel:  You're preaching to the choir here, Jill! Thursday March 4, 2010 10:28 Kim ODonnel

10:29

[Comment From Jeanne in Seattle Jeanne in Seattle : ]  The big co-op in Seattle (PCC) had to change its policies. They now have "member days" with lower prices and you get a member coupon for 10% off for one shopping trip. This means that non-members get the same overall prices as members. They had to go this way to stay in business. Thursday March 4, 2010 10:29 Jeanne in Seattle

10:29

Kim ODonnel:  That's right. Forgot that PCC is essentially a co-op (of which I'm a member), because it feels more like a market... Thursday March 4, 2010 10:29 Kim ODonnel

10:29

[Comment From redweather redweather : ]  jeanne - regarding walmart - i agree with you about their hiring, benefits, etc, and have long avoided shopping there. interestingly, recently i have been reading a lot about how they are a leader in trends - for instance, they are popularizing the low energy lightbulb.... they're a powerful company, and when they get behind an idea, they are a motor for culture change. i am still uneasy about shopping there for various reasons, but i am becoming more open to reconsidering my postion... perhaps just for organic and light bulbs? :) Thursday March 4, 2010 10:29 redweather

10:30

Kim ODonnel:  Well, and this new development about WM turning to local produce offerings is compelling -- would love to see for myself firsthand if that is happening. Maybe it's time for a trip to a WA store... Thursday March 4, 2010 10:30 Kim ODonnel

10:31

[Comment From Jill, The Veggie Queen Jill, The Veggie Queen : ]  Erin's method is: do what works. And that's what I recommend, too. Thursday March 4, 2010 10:31 Jill, The Veggie Queen

10:31

[Comment From Sanura Sanura : ]  Went shopping at the farmer's market, It's always fun, but it's way too expensive. Thursday March 4, 2010 10:31 Sanura

10:31

[Comment From Sanura Sanura : ]  I shop everywhere for produce. Trader Joe's is actually cheaper if I need large quantities of produce, but expensive for smaller households. Thursday March 4, 2010 10:31 Sanura

10:31

[Comment From Jeanne in Seattle Jeanne in Seattle : ]  I have found that the produce at our local Whole Foods is not nearly as good as that at our food co-op. And it's way more expensive. Drives me a bit crazy. But, I do shop there. Thursday March 4, 2010 10:31 Jeanne in Seattle

10:32

Kim ODonnel:  One thing I have noticed is that the local co-op here doesn't carry everything I want -- condiments come to mind -- so we've gotta go elsewhere to get those goods. Thursday March 4, 2010 10:32 Kim ODonnel

10:32

[Comment From Devlyn - Savorpdx.com Devlyn - Savorpdx.com : ]  I usually get my produce at the farmers' market during the season, but this year I'm growing my own food, too. Thursday March 4, 2010 10:32 Devlyn - Savorpdx.com

10:33

Kim ODonnel:  Devlyn -- I'm hoping to get a guest on the chat in the very near future about the ups and downs of growing your own. Stay tuned for those details! Thursday March 4, 2010 10:33 Kim ODonnel

10:33

[Comment From Erin Erin : ]  The main benefit of our buying club is that we can find items that aren't currently stocked in our local chain stores, and have them delivered to a central point. Basically, our group has to be able to come up with a minimum group order ($300) for the company to pack up and deliver the stuff. We all share in transportation charges. And the natural/organic products range from baking, to homeopathic, to coffee, to cleaning items. There is some cross-over: organic juice pouches, for instance, are the same price for 6 as you'd find in the grocery stores; however, if you go for (or share) a case, obviously the price per unit is lower. Thursday March 4, 2010 10:33 Erin

10:34

[Comment From Jeanne in Seattle Jeanne in Seattle : ]  I'm gluten-intolerant and Whole Foods carries the flours I need. Also, they have a couple of teas I like. If I didn't need a specialty item like this, I probably wouldn't shop there at all--I would go to our co-op for everything. Thursday March 4, 2010 10:34 Jeanne in Seattle

10:34

[Comment From Devlyn - Savorpdx.com Devlyn - Savorpdx.com : ]  Kim - that'd be great! The exec. director of the Portland Farmers' Market is going to be on my show this tuesday. I plan on hitting her up for some pointers for my garden. :) Thursday March 4, 2010 10:34 Devlyn - Savorpdx.com

10:35

[Comment From Sanura Sanura : ]  Last year I did urban gardening on my fire escape. Grew so many herbs and it saved so much money. Thursday March 4, 2010 10:35 Sanura

10:35

Kim ODonnel:  Sanura, I'm a big proponent of growing herbs, if that's all you do. It is a HUGE money saver. Thursday March 4, 2010 10:35 Kim ODonnel

10:35

[Comment From Danielle - Portland Danielle - Portland : ]  The buying club sounds interesting! I would love to do something like that. Thursday March 4, 2010 10:35 Danielle - Portland

10:35

[Comment From Jeanne in Seattle Jeanne in Seattle : ]  I am also part of a buying club (anyone can develop one!) for toiletries, spices, kitchen stuff, etc. It's great and way less expensive! Thursday March 4, 2010 10:35 Jeanne in Seattle

10:36

[Comment From Danielle - Portland Danielle - Portland : ]  Our farmer's market is only open on weekends I believe, although last year they started opening on Fridays as well. It's frustrating not to have access to produce every day that's local and organic and affordable (unlike Whole Paycheck, er, Whole Foods, I won't shop there). Thursday March 4, 2010 10:36 Danielle - Portland

10:36

Kim ODonnel:  This is a commonly complaint among folks who are keen to shop via the farm market. Maybe you're a good candidate for the CSA box every week? Thursday March 4, 2010 10:36 Kim ODonnel

10:37

[Comment From Jill, The Veggie Queen Jill, The Veggie Queen : ]  Thanks for letting me share my two cents (or more) today. I hope that more people will spread the word about giving money to farmers who really need it. We only spend 9% of income on food but need to spend more and give it to farmers so we can all eat in the days to come. Love grow your own, too. Have to run. Thursday March 4, 2010 10:37 Jill, The Veggie Queen

10:37

Kim ODonnel:  Jill, as always, your comments are appreciated! See you next week -- it'll be meatless! Thursday March 4, 2010 10:37 Kim ODonnel

10:38

[Comment From redweather redweather : ]  forgive me for linking you to an aol article (classy!) but while we're talking about where we shop and our food comes from, i thought i would post this article, on "orthorexia" http://tinyurl.com/yjge5eo Thursday March 4, 2010 10:38 redweather

10:38

Kim ODonnel:  redweather, that is hilarious! Thursday March 4, 2010 10:38 Kim ODonnel

10:38

[Comment From redweather redweather : ]  kim - one "down" of growing your own is going hungry. two years in a row, i've failed at tomatoes, zucchini (seriously, who fails at growing zucchini??!?!!), and peppers. Thursday March 4, 2010 10:38 redweather

10:39

Kim ODonnel:  I've got a grow your own expert in mind to come online, with tips, expectations, etc Very good point, redweather. Thursday March 4, 2010 10:39 Kim ODonnel

10:39

[Comment From Erin Erin : ]  This year, I am going to garden-landscape: mix in the squashes with plantings to have a variety of textures in the yard, AND we'll be able to eat some of it too! In addition to pumpkin, spagh squash and butternut, I'm going to get some onions, garlic (fall) and herbs in there. This will keep us in fresh squash next fall/winter, when our CSA stops for the season. Thursday March 4, 2010 10:39 Erin

10:40

Kim ODonnel:  Erin, you've got it going on! Is this a first for you -- or a repeat project? Thursday March 4, 2010 10:40 Kim ODonnel

10:41

[Comment From Devlyn - Savorpdx.com Devlyn - Savorpdx.com : ]  Danielle - the portland (oregon) farmers' market has a bunch of different locations, and this year there will be a market on each day of the week in different locations except for sunday, I believe. They're adding one downtown on Monday (Pioneer Square), and one in NW on thursdays. Thursday March 4, 2010 10:41 Devlyn - Savorpdx.com

10:41

[Comment From redweather redweather : ]  re: orthorexia, i think it's interesting that someone in the media is trying to sell us on the dangers of considering our food too much. like that's the big problem in America....... Thursday March 4, 2010 10:41 redweather

10:41

Kim ODonnel:  Interesting is an interesting word choice, redweather... Thursday March 4, 2010 10:41 Kim ODonnel

10:41

[Comment From Sanura Sanura : ]  Can't wait to have a place where I can grow a vegetable garden. I moved from my lovely apt. with the urban flower escape into an apartment that doesn't have much sunlight. I will try my herbs again this year, but I'm worried about the lack of sunlight they will receive. Thursday March 4, 2010 10:41 Sanura

10:41

[Comment From Danielle - Portland Danielle - Portland : ]  Edible landscaping is my focus too! I don't have a lot of space for a big garden, so I'm maximizing the space I do and mixing veggies in. As well, I am planning to replace a lot of my lawn with edible and native landscaping. Thursday March 4, 2010 10:41 Danielle - Portland

10:42

[Comment From Jeanne in Seattle Jeanne in Seattle : ]  We also have a buying club. It saves so much money and anyone can do it! We shop from one place, though. We get wholesale prices. The order goes in online and the stuff is delivered to the house of one of our members. We just go over and collect our stuff. Thursday March 4, 2010 10:42 Jeanne in Seattle

10:42

[Comment From Devlyn - Savorpdx.com Devlyn - Savorpdx.com : ]  I admit I do hit up Fred Meyer, Trader Joe's, and Food Front to get other non-seasonable veggies when I'm in a desperate mood. Thursday March 4, 2010 10:42 Devlyn - Savorpdx.com

10:43

[Comment From Jennifer Jennifer : ]  I wish more CSAs would consider smaller or half shares. There are just two in our household and we haven't felt comfortable making the commitment to a full share. I'm in Falls Church and buy most of our produce at the weekly farmer's market in the spring and summer months and it is definitely more expensive than the local grocery stores. Thursday March 4, 2010 10:43 Jennifer

10:44

Kim ODonnel:  Jennifer, I completely agree on the size of share. I've noticed that more CSAs out in Seattle are doing half shares. Thursday March 4, 2010 10:44 Kim ODonnel

10:44

[Comment From Ruth Ruth : ]  Well Ruth from Prairie Canada here and still have a ways to go till spring planting conditions, I already dreaming of my summer veggie garden and the farmers market. Thursday March 4, 2010 10:44 Ruth

10:44

Kim ODonnel:  Hello Ruth! Has it been a long winter? Thursday March 4, 2010 10:44 Kim ODonnel

10:44

[Comment From renee renee : ]  I get my CSA every other week and the food is so fresh by the second week it's as fresh as grocery store food anyway Thursday March 4, 2010 10:44 renee

10:45

Kim ODonnel:  Interesting point, renee. Do you amount to be just enough/too much/not enough (do you ever need to supplement)? Thursday March 4, 2010 10:45 Kim ODonnel

10:45

[Comment From Ruth Ruth : ]  We have a large farmers market in summer open on Saturdays and that gives me the rest of my produce in the summer. Winter is always hard and I have to rely on supermarkets for fresh produce. Thursday March 4, 2010 10:45 Ruth

10:47

Kim ODonnel:  Ruth you touch on a point that I have been thinking about for the entire hour. As much as we'd like to get our food from the freshest, most local sources, life seems to get in the way, and we must do what we can, despite our intentions. I think the most important thing is to be mindful, and practice these ideas as often as we can but not give ourselves a hard time if we can't for a certain period of time. Thursday March 4, 2010 10:47 Kim ODonnel

10:47

[Comment From Devlyn - Savorpdx.com Devlyn - Savorpdx.com : ]  There are a *lot* of CSAs here that are doing more custom orders. They set it up so that you give them a certain amount of money at the beginning of the season, then you can "place an order" each week, and the $$ comes out of the original payment. That way you don't end up with veg you don't want, and just enough for your family. Thursday March 4, 2010 10:47 Devlyn - Savorpdx.com

10:47

[Comment From Erin Erin : ]  @Jennifer - we did a CSA share about 8 years ago and balked at what we ended up wasting. This year I'm ready: we're getting a hand-me-down upright freezer to handle any overload. Thursday March 4, 2010 10:47 Erin

10:48

Kim ODonnel:  Erin, you're on fire! So impressed. Thursday March 4, 2010 10:48 Kim ODonnel

10:48

[Comment From redweather redweather : ]  you all are really inspiring me to try the CSA - i've been wary of having the food selected for me, rather than getting to choose..... Thursday March 4, 2010 10:48 redweather

10:48

[Comment From Jeanne in Seattle Jeanne in Seattle : ]  Good point, Kim! I think that Walmart selling local, organic produce is especially important for places where there is nothing local or organic. Food desert places where strip malls rule the scene. Thursday March 4, 2010 10:48 Jeanne in Seattle

10:48

[Comment From renee renee : ]  the CSA I was using had fruits and veggies so I rarely had to supplement. I found I didn't need to go to the farmer's market much either, a gas and time saver Thursday March 4, 2010 10:48 renee

10:48

[Comment From Danielle - Portland Danielle - Portland : ]  So what are some good sources for the buying club? Any recommendations? I really want to look into this, I know I could round up enough friends and neighbors to start one. Thursday March 4, 2010 10:48 Danielle - Portland

10:48

[Comment From Erin Erin : ]  The garden-landscape is a new project for me. My mom had a garden for us, growing up, but that is the extent of my green thumb. Our CSA farmer is a personal friend and she's been a good resource for seeds, where to purchase fertilizers (organic ones), etc. If I have a chance, I'll be volunteering on her farm one morning a week (my kids will entertain hers), too. OH! And I'll be canning a lot of the squash/pumpkin, too! Thursday March 4, 2010 10:48 Erin

10:49

[Comment From Sanura Sanura : ]  Speaking of Farmer's Markets. If anyone is in NY, there's a website that post Farmer's Market around the city, their schedules, what farmers are bring, etc. http://whatisfresh.com/ Thursday March 4, 2010 10:49 Sanura

10:49

Kim ODonnel:  Thanks, Sanura. Do you live in or around Manhattan? Thursday March 4, 2010 10:49 Kim ODonnel

10:49

[Comment From Jeanne in Seattle Jeanne in Seattle : ]  I tuck veggies and herbs all over my garden. I sometimes forget where I put things and am pleasantly surprised when I find squashes next to the nectarine tree! Thursday March 4, 2010 10:49 Jeanne in Seattle

10:49

[Comment From Erin Erin : ]  And, RIGHT ON Jill; keeping our money in the local economy and supporting our farmers is exactly what changed my husband's mind about local food and joining a CSA. He said that if there is one place to splurge in our current economy, it is for local food products. That, and we're good friends with the farmer! Thursday March 4, 2010 10:49 Erin

10:49

[Comment From Jennifer Jennifer : ]  I've thought about freezing and I've started canning so that may be an option, too. Thursday March 4, 2010 10:49 Jennifer

10:49

[Comment From Ruth Ruth : ]  And I have found many good local sources of meat other than the supermarket. We have a large number of animal producers around here and I get meat from the farmers market in Summer and have now discovered several good butcher shops whoe offer local meat exclusively! It tastes soooo good! Thursday March 4, 2010 10:49 Ruth

10:50

[Comment From Jeanne in Seattle Jeanne in Seattle : ]  One thing I liked about living in NYC is that shopping every day was part of the routine. Helped me buy only what was needed for that and next day. And the farmer's market was fun to go do--and also a fun, social thing. Thursday March 4, 2010 10:50 Jeanne in Seattle

10:50

[Comment From Ruth Ruth : ]  Also I love buying lots in the summer and freezing it for winter use. I have yet to get into canning though! Thursday March 4, 2010 10:50 Ruth

10:51

Kim ODonnel:  Ruth, this is my chance to put in a plug for Canning Across America, a project I helped to found last summer (www.canningacrossamerica.com). We'll be starting things up again very soon. Thursday March 4, 2010 10:51 Kim ODonnel

10:51

[Comment From Sanura Sanura : ]  Brooklyn. Love the Farmer's Market all over the city: Union Square, Fort Greene, Grand Army Plaza, and Brooklyn Borough Hall. It was the Farmer's Market that introduced me to fresh food. Thursday March 4, 2010 10:51 Sanura

10:53

Kim ODonnel:  Sanura: the farmer's market introduced me to fresh food great talking point. folks -- what introduced you to fresh food? Thursday March 4, 2010 10:53 Kim ODonnel

10:53

[Comment From Jennifer Jennifer : ]  I loved canning across america. It's reassuring to hear about other's experiences when you are a novice canner. Thursday March 4, 2010 10:53 Jennifer

10:53

Kim ODonnel:  Jennifer, get ready for season 2! Thursday March 4, 2010 10:53 Kim ODonnel

10:53

[Comment From Ruth Ruth : ]  Anyone planning on foraging this spring? I'm looking forward to nettle soup and mushroom fry-ups Thursday March 4, 2010 10:53 Ruth

10:54

Kim ODonnel:  You need to get a copy of Langdon Cook's "Fat of the Land. " He's based here in Seattle -- a fellow forager and his book is a collection of his tales in the dirt. Thursday March 4, 2010 10:54 Kim ODonnel

10:54

[Comment From Sanura Sanura : ]  A few weeks ago, I discovered Crosnes, part of the mint family. Looks like it would be a tuber, but it isn't. It was similar to jicama. Thursday March 4, 2010 10:54 Sanura

10:54

Kim ODonnel:  Never heard of this. Where did you find? Thursday March 4, 2010 10:54 Kim ODonnel

10:55

[Comment From Sanura Sanura : ]  And, I grew up near farms in Virginia! It fun seeing produce or varieties/heirlooms I've never heard seen. I'll never forget seeing purple scallions for the first time. Thursday March 4, 2010 10:55 Sanura

10:55

[Comment From Jeanne in Seattle Jeanne in Seattle : ]  There are also bulk meat buying opportunities around. You contact a farm and go in on a whole cow (or whatever) with your buying group. They will break down the animal into manageable portions for you. Great way to save on locally raised and organic meat. Thursday March 4, 2010 10:55 Jeanne in Seattle

10:55

[Comment From Danielle - Portland Danielle - Portland : ]  I can't wait to hear more about canning. That's on my to-do list this year too! Me and a girlfriend are going to do it together. Thursday March 4, 2010 10:55 Danielle - Portland

10:55

[Comment From Erin Erin : ]  The one potential drawback that I see in our participation in a CSA is that I won't be going to the weekly farmer's market as often. THAT is where I learned about fresh foods, especially meats and cheeses. I *love* going there in the summer with the kids, because we've gotten to know several vendors, plus there is an exhibition vegetable garden there, where we can watch mulching, planting and growing, and harvesting. Get to know your farmers, everyone. They're wealthy resources and fine people. Thursday March 4, 2010 10:55 Erin

10:56

Kim ODonnel:  Erin, I'm with you. The farm market is a social & educational hub. I would miss it. Thursday March 4, 2010 10:56 Kim ODonnel

10:56

[Comment From Jeanne in Seattle Jeanne in Seattle : ]  I'm part of the Canning Across America group and I have to say--canning so super fun! Thursday March 4, 2010 10:56 Jeanne in Seattle

10:56

[Comment From Ruth Ruth : ]  I've heard of it but have yet to take a trip to my library and pick up a copy Thursday March 4, 2010 10:56 Ruth

10:56

Kim ODonnel:  Where is Prairie, Canada exactly? Thursday March 4, 2010 10:56 Kim ODonnel

10:56

[Comment From Jeanne in Seattle Jeanne in Seattle : ]  Danielle: our buying club buys from Pioneer Organics. We set up an account with them, gathered a group, made sure to have a minimum order amount each time. The person who ordered also added a 5% fee on top of the order to compensate them for their time. Thursday March 4, 2010 10:56 Jeanne in Seattle

10:57

[Comment From Danielle - Portland Danielle - Portland : ]  Thanks for the info, Jeanne! Thursday March 4, 2010 10:57 Danielle - Portland

10:58

[Comment From Ruth Ruth : ]  I think "interesting" produce is what gets me most excited about gardening and the farmers market. There is the most amazing variety of veggies out there and going to the supermarket you only see a fraction of it. I love introducing kids to yellow carrots, purple caulifower and flowers in salads! Thursday March 4, 2010 10:58 Ruth

10:58

Kim ODonnel:  Program note: next week (3/11), we'll have our monthly meatless hour, and by next week, I'll have details on what's coming up, including gluten-free and grow your own. Thursday March 4, 2010 10:58 Kim ODonnel

10:58

[Comment From Ruth Ruth : ]  Oh and the purple and pink mashed potatos were a huge hit! Thursday March 4, 2010 10:58 Ruth

10:59

Kim ODonnel:  I love the idea of pink mashed!! Thursday March 4, 2010 10:59 Kim ODonnel

10:59

[Comment From Sanura Sanura : ]  @Ruth I would love to start adding flowers to salads. It would be a lovely addition. Thursday March 4, 2010 10:59 Sanura

11:00

Kim ODonnel:  Okay, gang, it's time to say bye bye. Thanks for such a lively conversation -- a lot to consider and think about going forward. We may try this again -- or even offer a monthly discussion on sourcing your food partic. with growing season about to begin. Stay tuned! Take good care. Thursday March 4, 2010 11:00 Kim ODonnel