Quality not quantity at Oakland’s farmers’ markets

If you really want to get in touch with the possibilities of eating fresh, there are over a dozen farmers’ markets in Oakland to help you fix a local dinner plate.

Lucky’s may have kale a few cents cheaper, but by going to a farmers’ market, you can get some fresh air while picking up some produce.

Most farmers’ markets take place on weekend mornings, which may make it difficult to attend for students who are not early risers.

However, there are some which accommodate more nocturnal Millsies, such as the North Oakland Children’s Hospital farmers’ Market.

Sponsored by the People’s Grocery, an organization that promotes healthy food for everyone, this market — although smaller —boasts cheap prices and freshly-prepared healthy food samples.

If you don’t want to venture so far from Mills, there’s the Laurel District farmers’ Market just down the street, which is held in the parking lot of Giant Burgers on MacArthur Blvd.

In addition to farmers’ markets supporting local growers, they often have political goals as well.  Oakland Food Connection, Inc. (OFC), an organization that promotes proper nutrition and food sustainability, describes the political aim of Oakland farmers’ markets on their website:

“OFC employs a ‘Food Justice Education’ model that integrates food, community, culture and economic development with personal and community health. We address the root causes of health inequalities among low-income communities of color in East Oakland and work towards lasting systemic change.”

If you want some fresh eats that promote social change, hop on the bus and head to some of the nearest farmers’ markets.

A GUIDE TO OAKLAND FARMERS’ MARKETS