We’re entering prime harvest time in the Garden State, which means we’re getting out to the state’s many community farmers markets and tasting what local farmers, food makers and chefs have to offer. We recently stopped by the Thursday market in Barnegat and chatted with some vendors to see what makes this quintessential Jersey market one to visit.
Village Greens, an NJ urban farm, grows and sells microgreens, “Nature’s most perfect food,” according to vendor Liam. He says all the nutrition comes from this stage of growth. “These are alive! They’re still living.”
Harvested at the “freshest possible moment,” Liam says microgreens contain 40 times more nutrition than their full-grown counterparts. “It all comes from the seed. You don’t need soil.”
Bay Ave Baking Co., a Barnegat-based bakery, focuses on sourdough breads, bagels and other baked goods. “There’s not a lot of sourdough in this area,” says owner Paul; offering loaves helps set them apart. Prime enjoyment comes from interacting with the customers, he adds; getting to know them and their preferences is the best part of being at the market.
Baker’s Bounty is a Linden-based bakery that’s been around for 40 years, frequenting markets in New York and North Jersey and now spreading to South Jersey. This family-owned business prides themselves on having no preservatives—everything is farm to table.
House of Cork’s unique business focuses on handmade cork bags. This eco-friendly, sustainable material is from Portugal. “What’s unique is the bark,” Head of Sales Diana says, which is harvested without chopping the tree down and is able to regenerate. The bark is turned into these handbags which are durable, vegan and of course, environmentally friendly. The business designs the handbags, which are crafted by Portugeuse artisans, and sold at different events, markets and craft fairs.
Anita’s Guacamole is a small business that sells vegan dips around Pennsylvania, South Florida and New Jersey. Their guacamole is all fresh and made on site. It’s vegan, nut-free, dairy-free and gluten-free. And delicious—adds vendor Jack, “It’s nice to serve something that people enjoy eating.”
Barnegat Farmers Market. Every Thursday until Oct. 28. 14 Birdsall St, Barnegat, 10 a.m.-3 p.m., more info here.