The Farmer’s Market returns to Free Speech Plaza this semester on Wednesdays from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., offering foods ranging from red pears to sweet peppers.
The Daily Reveille previously reported the farmer’s market was first established in fall 2013, when Auxiliary Services director Margot Carroll took the idea from the University of Delaware, where she was previously employed.
The market offers seasonal foods as well as year-round plants, such as zucchini and squash. The produce, most of which is locally grown, comes from Capital City Produce — the same company that provides the fruits and vegetables in the dining hall, Auxiliary Services Communications Coordinator Heather Gulino said.
“[Capital City Produce] were able to create a deal where they supply a lot of the local farm-grown produce that they carry,” Gulino said.
As one of the few farmer’s markets in the Baton Rouge area, Capital City Produce takes pride in its service, said Anya Hudnell, the company’s director of marketing and creativity.
“It’s great to be a part of something that’s out there in terms of promoting healthy eating and be a part of something unique that is hard to come by,” Hudnell said. “We think it’s a really fun way to engage and connect with part of the LSU community and anybody that attends the farmer’s market.”
Part of the market’s purpose is to promote a healthier lifestyle. Unless students frequent the grocery store, they miss out on certain wellness opportunities, Gulino said.
Though the prices of the farmer’s market produce are comparable to that of a grocery store, Gulino said there is a definite difference in quality.
“It’s not going through vendors. It’s not going through store retailers,” Gulino said. “And the best part is, if you get there early enough, you get the really good things.”
Plenty of the produce offered at the farmer’s market is grown in and around the Baton Rouge area.
“We try to promote locally-grown produce whenever we can,” said Capital City Produce salesman David Soike.
Senior Executive Chef of LSU Dining Jon Jackson said he thinks the fresh produce is beneficial for students and enjoys seeing how many students frequent the market.
“I think it is just a good way for the kids to get something good on the go, whether it’s a bunch of bananas or a bag of grapes,” Jackson said. “Seeing these kids, that’s the greatest joy I get out of it. If you look around, everyone’s pretty happy that we’re here.”
Along with a chef who prepares freshly made samples for students to try, several recipe cards are offered for students to take and try themselves, Jackson said.
Architecture junior Sarah Eikram said the market’s convenience is especially helpful for on-campus students.
“It’s really great being able to get apples or bananas or something that simple,” Eikram said. “I need fresh food a lot because I eat a lot of fruit, so I’ll be back.”