Finding the time to go to a farmers’ market is sometimes difficult between all the other tasks that life demands. If you don’t have time to go to the market, there is an easy way to buy local foods online.
The Iowa Food Cooperative is an online food buying club that connects consumers with Iowa grown products. Producers post what food is available and members order online and pick up the food at a designated location. There are several locations in the Des Moines area including Merle Hay Mall, West Des Moines, Ankeny, and Ames. Membership is required to participate. The initial fee to join is $50, with an annual fee of $10 after the first year.
There are approximately 100 producers that sell throughout the year. Types of products include fruits and vegetables, cheese, eggs, jams, grains, honey, meat (beef, elk, goat, lamb, and pork), poultry, condiments, wine, baked goods, household supplies, and other non-food items.
Visit the Iowa Food Cooperative website for more information.
