Every Saturday from 8 a.m. to noon, Newton hosts a farmers market in the parking lot behind Breadbasket. Based on a poll taken on the NHSrailermedia Instagram, about 50 percent of followers did not know this.
“I had no idea we had a farmer’s market,” senior Trista Blackwell said, “I think it’s cool that we have that option here.”
Market manager, Doris Unruh, said it has been open in Newton for about 40 years. The vendors at the market are all local and so is the produce. They have fruits and vegetables, baked goods, woodworking, flavored coffee, coffee beans, floral plants, and lots of meat. They also have gluten-free options for baked goods.
“I’ve baked bread since I was a teenager […] it’s homemade, doesn’t have additives [and] it’s fresh. This is local food […] [at] the store, many of the foods have preservatives in them and even some of the things they use in humans to embalm them, so I would say it’s healthier,” vendor William Brandt said.
Irene’s Myomassology Institute states that food preservatives are additives put into food during its production to improve the taste or look and shelf life. Some additives are beneficial, however, excessive intake can negatively impact health.
“I think the idea of fresh produce [being] locally grown is healthy and supports the communities around you,” Unruh said.
Not only does the market provide goods, but it sometimes has special events.
“We have had three or four music groups come and perform for an hour or two. We have had a couple of food demonstrations. We have had blood pressure checks done here also,” Unruh said.
The vendors at this market have many items that they provide, and some have been there for a long time. Brandt mentioned that he has been a vendor on and off for about 30 years.
“We have an application that you fill out … when it’s approved then you just come work,” Unruh said.
With the variety of options vendors provide at the market, it is easy to find many locally grown, healthy items.
“I’m sure it’s a lot healthier than stores. I will definitely have to try it sometime,” Blackwell said.
