Scotland's Farm Shop Phenomenon

This summer my taste buds were treated to the amazingly fresh food that is made and grown in Scotland. My salivary glands sang for fresh fish and chips, my sweet tooth was delighted by all the "sweeties" and as always, Irn Bru, Scotland's best selling soft drink, satisfied my thirst. However, what amazed me the most were the farm shops.

When I say farm you probably think of cows, pigs, overalls, corn and tractors. A cafe would be the furthest thing from your mind. However, in

Britain, more and more farms are selling their produce already prepared. Fresh meat, vegetables, homemade pies, wines, chutneys and baking are all available under one roof. Though not all the products sold in farm shops are from that specific farm, lemonades, wines, cheeses and fruit and veg are brought from other local farms and not from other countries or continents.

The Farm Shop phenomenon is one with many positive effects. The produce sold is grown safely on farms in the area. It is cultivated in a family environment. You can buy a mince round or steak pie, knowing that all the people involved in bringing you these wonderful meals wanted to give you the best experience possible. Not only are you being treated to such wonderfully fresh food, but you are encouraging your local economy as well.

Though you won't find many farms on the island of Montreal, you will find lots of different farmer's markets. So if you want to try the farm shop philosophy out, visit one of Montreal's very own markets, such as the Atwater or Jean-Talon markets, which are both open year round.

Link to the Atwater Market: http://www.marchespublics-mtl.com/English/Atwater/

Link to the Jean-Talon Market: http://www.marchespublics-mtl.com/English/Jean-Talon/