The Statewide Farmer’s Markets Tour 2014 brought its mission of enlightening Massachusetts residents on the benefits of healthy diet choice to Somerville last week.

By Rebecca Danvers

The Statewide Farmer’s Markets Tour 2014 made a stop at the Davis Square Farmers’ Market on Wednesday, November 5.

The tour aims to promote Massachusetts’ farmers markets and raise awareness about healthy eating options for low-income residents across the Commonwealth. Farmers markets provide families and individuals who may not otherwise have access with an opportunity to purchase nutritious food SNAP/EBT benefits.

Commissioner Watson of the Massachusetts Department of Agricultural Resources and Mayor Joseph A. Curtatone had an opportunity to sample and vote for their favorite apples. They also participated in a number of other activities including cooking demonstrations by UMass Extension.

Somerville Farm to School Project Director Karyn Novakowski and Food & Nutrition Services Director Lauren Mancini gave a demonstration of how “A Tale of Two Apples” taste tests are being conducted throughout the District.

The goal of the Statewide Farmers’ Markets Tour 2014 is to increase awareness and celebrate the success of Farmers Markets across the state, and to support increasing access to healthy choices for SNAP and WIC households at Farmers Markets in Massachusetts communities.