The people of the Rio Grande Valley, on both sides of the Rio Bravo, are interested in eating. This we know to be true. Demonstrated in countless ways every day, the one million plus residents of this alluvial delta love to eat, and they spend a lot of money in order to do it.
Money flows day and night, out of our pockets and into the bank accounts of… Did you ever think of it that way? Accounts of large corporations, if the purchases are processed foods that come in boxes and bags with lengthy lists of ingredients we all know aren’t something you can pick from a tree or pull out of the ground. Do you know where monocalcium phosphate, sodium metabisulfate, or protease come from? A laboratory, no doubt!
Or consider the meats and poultry we buy on Styrofoam trays wrapped in plastic. This is food that comes from factory-raised animals that are fed diets of corn or grain treated with antibiotics, protein supplements and growth hormones. Did you ever stop to think about the fact that cows are ruminants? Their stomachs are four-chambered organs perfectly designed to convert grass, their normal diet, to protein. This is why “grass-fed beef” is so delicious. Sadly, most of the beef sold in the United States is not grass-fed.
Lately though, back in the Rio Grande Valley, there has been a trend afoot, a trend toward buying food that is grown right here where we all live and work and play. We’re buying food that is sold at farmers markets and community supported agriculture farms (CSAs) up and down the valley. The simple decisions we make to spend our money on locally grown food means that people who are our neighbors are able to earn a regular income. As we have continued to support them, these neighbors are increasing the size and scope of their production because we are buying fresh food from them.
There are farmers markets operating in San Juan, Brownsville, Harlingen, and, as of January 17, South Padre Island. These markets are the place to go for freshly harvested seasonal vegetables, fruits, herbs, free-range eggs, fresh baked whole grain breads, local honeys, and much more. Some of the markets will expand to offer grass-fed beef, free-range chickens, and other meats from local producers who care about the quality of their product.
Additionally, there are two CSAs we’re aware of that offer memberships. Hernandez Family Farm in San Juan, and Yahweh’s All Natural Farm and Garden is in Harlingen. Anyone can purchase a membership in a CSA, which is a commitment to buy fresh produce at that CSA each week for a set price. Ask us about CSAs when you come to the market, we’ll introduce you to some owners there.
The Rio Grande Valley is a richer place to live because of these venues for high quality, locally produced foods. Get to know the markets, and improve your quality of life.
