Why we love our independent farmers!

Partnering with the Farm-to-Consumer Legal Defense Fund for Giving Tuesday – and farmers’ market shopping tips  

At Smidge®, we love our farmers. It’s essential to have access to fresh, locally sourced food, and for the farmers to have all the resources they need to grow from the roots up. 🚜 💛  

So for Giving Tuesday 2024, we’re donating 5% of your purchase on December 3, 2024 to the Farm-to-Consumer Legal Defense Fund (FTCLDF) — which supports the rights of independent farmers and artisanal food producers. Plus, you’ll receive free shipping!   

The mission of FTCLDF aligns closely with our values at Smidge®. We believe in real, wholesome food, just like the independent farmers FTCLDF works tirelessly to protect. Here's why this cause is so important to us: 

• Empowering farmers and consumers: The FTCLDF is dedicated to defending the rights of independent farmers and artisanal food producers, ensuring they can continue to provide high-quality, farm-grown products directly to consumers. They advocate for the freedom to choose where and how we access our food. This commitment deeply resonates because we believe in empowering small businesses and supporting local economies. 

• Advocating for food freedom: At Smidge®, we’re champions of nutrient-dense, traditional diets that promote health and wellness. A big part of this is having the freedom to choose foods from trusted sources. The FTCLDF works at the state level to ensure consumers can access the foods of their choice, from raw milk to grass-fed meats and organic produce. 

• Supporting a grassroots movement: The FTCLDF operates without government or significant corporate funding. This means their work is truly grassroots, fueled by the passion and dedication of farmers, consumers, and advocates for real food. Smidge® is proud to be part of this community, as it reflects our ethos of supporting small-scale, independent efforts that make a big difference. 

• Real food for better health: Our journey at Smidge® began with a personal commitment to real food. Our three co-founders healed their own serious health conditions by focusing on traditional diets rich in minerals and fat-soluble vitamins. And our supplement line was created to complement this way of eating. We support the FTCLDF because it ensures more people can access farm-fresh, nutrient-rich foods, empowering them to take charge of their health, just as we did. 

Giving back on Giving Tuesday 

Even if you can't make a purchase today, there are plenty of ways to give back: 

• Donate to an organization you're passionate about. 

• Sign up to volunteer at a local farm or community event. 

• Lend a hand to a neighbor in need. 

Every small act of kindness counts. Thank you for being part of this movement, and we wish you a beautiful and generous Giving Tuesday. 💜 

Meanwhile, here are some tips if you’re starting to weave in farmers’ markets into your shopping routines.  

Farmers’ market shopping tips from Smidge® 

Farmers’ markets are a great way to access fresh, nutritious, and locally-grown food while supporting independent farmers. Here are our top tips for making the most out of your farmers market visits: 

1. Ask questions: When buying locally, you have the unique opportunity to speak directly with the people who grow your food. You can ask them how they raise their animals, what they feed them, or what farming practices they use. This way, you can be sure you're getting the quality you want. 
2. Look beyond the organic label: Many small farmers follow organic practices but can't afford certification. If you see food that isn't labeled organic, don’t dismiss it. Ask the farmer how it was grown or raised. You might be surprised to find that it meets or even exceeds organic standards. 
3. Bring reusable bags: Help reduce waste by bringing your own bags to carry your purchases. This small act can make a big difference over time. 
4. Buy in season: Seasonal produce is fresher, tastes better, richer in nutrients and often costs less than out-of-season imports. Plus, buying in season supports the natural rhythms of local farms. 
5. Plan ahead, but stay flexible: While it's good to have an idea of what you want to buy, part of the fun of farmers markets is discovering new foods. Be open to trying different fruits, veggies, or products you may not have seen before. 
6. Shop early (or late) for the best deals: Arriving early ensures you get the best selection, while shopping closer to closing time might score you some discounts, as farmers are often eager to sell off their remaining stock. 
7. Consider buying in bulk: If you find a great deal on something you love, consider buying in bulk. You can freeze or preserve produce to enjoy it all year long!
8. Bring cash (but ask about cards): Some farmers may prefer cash, but many have started accepting cards or mobile payments. It's always good to have a little cash on hand, just in case. 

By shopping at farmers markets, not only are you getting fresh, nutritious food, but you're also supporting a more sustainable food system. One that values local communities, small-scale farming, and direct connections between farmers and consumers. 

Celebrate real food with Smidge® 

Our owners and many of our team members have adopted our own grocery shopping routines to discover local meat, egg and raw milk farmers and the most abundant seasonal produce. And we learned how to cook healthy, nourishing meals. We encourage you to do the same!