This is one of four inner city markets run by the Melbourne Community Farmers Markets. Held on the…read more4th Saturday of the month it is unique as it demonstrates both Slow Food principles as well as meeting the Victorian Farmers' Market Association accreditation criteria of being direct from local producers only.
So what is The Slow Food movement? You know when people say tomatoes, meat or fruit were tastier back in the day? That's because we used to eat traditional slow growing varieties and breeds. So globally, Slow food is about protecting those heirloom and rare breed varieties of food, which are fast becoming extinct in favour of modified fast growing produce that suits the turnover of supermarkets, fast food chains and industry.
It is also about supporting your local farmers and producers, without the middle man. Slow Food Australia says "We build networks between grower and eater, agriculture and market, community and world. We champion good, clean, fair and local food in ways that enhance knowledge, respect and passion."
So while this produce may not be familiar nor look as perfect as shop food, it is significantly more tasty, takes longer to produce, is chemical free, raised and handled ethically and works towards creating a sustainable future for the planet. The supermarket duopoly does not. So there's another point of difference.
At the front of this market is seasonal fresh fruit, vegetables, eggs, baked goods etc, in the courtyard at the back is meat, fish, dairy and cheese. And then there is the amazing Slow Food breakfast stall.
If you really want to taste the difference, eat this stall's food before shopping and skip the Convent Bakery. You'll find the Slow Food stall's dishes have all been made from produce at the market. All made from scratch, no packet mixes or industrial processed foods. It's a beautiful example of what you can actually do with the market's food.
We go regularly and learn a lot from talking to the farmers there. They give you cooking and handling tips and are happy to answer questions. If you come too, come early before everything sells out and bring your own bags, these farmers want to do you a favour by reducing waste too.