In the News 5 Ways to Make the Most of Your Farmers’ Market Trip

Farmers’ markets are a great resource for your family to find locally grown and fresh produce, especially during the WIC FMNP season. Whether you are a regular at your local farmers’ market or going for the first time, we’ve come up with 5 ways you can make the most of your WIC benefits and trips to your local farmers’ market or roadside stand!

What is the WIC Farmers’ Market Nutrition Program? 

The WIC Farmers’ Market Nutrition Program (FMNP) provides families with vouchers to spend at farmers’ markets in addition to regular WIC food benefits. During the WIC FMNP Season (June through October, depending on program), WIC families can receive between $10 and $30 dollars in FMNP benefits. Participants use paper or electronic vouchers through a WIC card, app, or QR code. In some areas,  families can also use their fruit and vegetable benefits (Cash Value Benefits) to purchase fresh produce at markets and roadside stands. 

To learn more about WIC FMNP and if you are eligible to participate, connect with your local clinic at signupwic.com! 

Make a list! 

Want to try out new fruits or vegetables or a new recipe? Make a list of what you want to find before your trip to the market. 

Shop early for the best selection!

Shop once the farmers’ market opens for the freshest and most fully stocked selections. 

Take a lap; scout the market! 

Spot farmers and vendors with WIC/FMNP signage before you shop. Look for signs or flyers labeled “WIC FMNP Accepted” to find WIC-approved vendors! You can also check in with the general information booth for guidance on WIC FMNP vendors. 

Ask the farmers questions! 

Farmers and vendors are a great source of information about the foods they grow and sell. Ask which fruits and vegetables are in season, how to select ripe produce, ways to store it to keep it fresh, and simple recipe ideas. You may even discover a new fruit or vegetable to try with your family. 

Prep your produce as soon as possible.

Practice food safety measures! Make sure to wash and store your produce in airtight containers to keep them clean and fresh! By doing this, you help ensure longevity and keep your produce tasting fresh. Explore the chart below, and visit this food safety website for additional resources on food safety guidelines. 

Want to learn more about the Farmers’ Market Nutrition Program (FMNP) or WIC? Explore www.signupwic.com to learn more and get started! 

Author

Maggie Dorato

Maggie is a third-year undergraduate at Emmanuel College in Boston, Massachusetts. She is majoring in Criminology, Criminal Justice, and Legal Studies, with an interest in women’s health equity, communications, and public policy. Previously, Maggie was a research assistant for Emmanuel, researching LGBTQIA+ healthcare access nationwide. She is passionate about ensuring that policy reflects public health needs and addressing long-standing health disparities through advocacy and education. 

References

Farmers’ Market Nutrition Program Social Media Toolkit. (2025). WIC Research, Policy and Practice Hub. https://thewichub.org/farmers-market-nutrition-program-social-media-toolkit/

Top 5 Tips to Maximize Your WIC Farmers’ Market Nutrition Program Benefits. (2025). National WIC Association. 

https://media.nwica.org/fmnp%20tip%20sheet%20maximize%20benefits%20august%202025.pdf

Food Safety - Education Materials and Information Resources. WIC Works Resource System. 

https://wicworks.fns.usda.gov/resources/food-safety-education-materials-and-information-resources