Eat Local 101 Educational Programs

The goal of Eat Local 101 is to inform and inspire eaters looking for a deeper connection to the people and places that grow their food. Eat Local 101 encompasses MAI's educational programs, including: market tours, seasonal tastings, chef demonstrations, and interactive displays on healthy eating and greening your farmers market experience. These activities rotate through our Eat Local 101 booth at the Sunday Marin Civic Center Farmers Market, enabling both devoted regulars and curious visitors to dig into their local food system.

Chef Tastings – 1st Sunday of the Month

From June to September 2010, a different local chef will be chosen each month to come and share a fresh, taste-tempting, seasonal recipe with market-goers. Our local expert will give customers one-on-one cooking and shopping advice, and at 11am lead customers on a tour to see the market through a chef’s eyes.

Check out the seasonal dishes recently featured at the Eat Local 101 booth on our Recipe Page.

Operation C.H.E.F – 2nd Sunday of the Month

Join nutrition educator Shannon Beitchman of Operation C.H.E.F. at the Eat Local 101 Booth the second Sunday of each month. Shannon will engage customers in exploring the importance of eating seasonal and local food through interactive demonstrations that take a closer look at processed foods, sugar, artificial flavors, colors, additives and GMO foods. Operation C.H.E.F. activities are simple and approachable, reaching a wide age range of eaters.
Learn more about Operation C.H.E.F.

Seasonal Tastings – 3rd Sunday of the Month

Savor the best of what’s in season every 3rd Sunday of the month from June – September 2010. Sample seasonal fruits and vegetables from a handful of producers each week, to get a taste of what you’d like to take home for the week. Our volunteers and staff will share cooking tips on the featured products and direct you to the farmers who are growing them.

Greener Markets – 4th Sunday of the Month

Beginning April 25th, in honor of Earth Day, MAI will partner with Green Sangha to bring you information on how to green your farmers market shopping experience. Every fourth Sunday of the month, this local environmental grassroots organization will offer practical tips on how to pick up all your food for the week without all the plastic. To learn more about how to volunteer at the Greener Market booth, please visit our volunteer page. More details are listed under "Zero Waste Education Volunteer."