As the weather gets colder and the harvest season comes to an end, many small farmers and home gardeners start thinking about preserving their excess produce for the winter months. Canning is a great way to extend the shelf life of your fruits and vegetables and enjoy the taste of summer all year round. It’s also a great opportunity to create value-added products that can be sold at farmers markets.
If you’re interested in making and selling canned goods at a farmers market, here are a few things to consider:
- Choose the right produce: Not all fruits and vegetables are suitable for canning. Stick to produce that is in season and at its peak of ripeness, as this will result in the best-tasting canned goods.
- Follow proper canning techniques: Canning is a science, and it’s important to follow proper canning techniques to ensure the safety of your products. This includes using the right equipment, such as a water bath canner or pressure canner, and following proper sterilization and sealing procedures.
- Choose the right containers: Glass jars are the most common containers for canned goods, but you might also consider using tin cans or other types of packaging. Be sure to choose containers that are the appropriate size for your products and that seal properly.
- Price your products appropriately: Consider the cost of your ingredients and labor, as well as the going rate for similar products at your local farmers market, when pricing your canned goods. You may also want to consider offering bulk discounts or bundle deals to encourage customers to buy in larger quantities.
- Promote your products: Be sure to let customers know about your canned goods and highlight any unique selling points, such as locally-grown produce or unique flavors. Consider creating eye-catching labels or signage to draw attention to your products.
By following these tips, you can make and sell canned goods successfully at a farmers market. Not only will you be able to share your delicious products with customers, but you’ll also be able to extend the shelf life of your produce and create a value-added product that can help your business thrive.