Dave Faries here, inviting you to embark on the grand finale of the holiday season shopping spree. I firmly believe in shopping local, adhering to a food writer's definition that means sourcing goods from Monterey County. My cellar is brimming with local wines, encompassing both Central Coast AVAs and labels from my previous sojourn in Lake County. When it comes to grocery counters, I have a preference for The Meatery in Seaside over chain stores. If I spot a jar of jam or a bottle of olive oil from a local producer, it immediately finds its way into my cart. Currently, the beer in my fridge hails from Alvarado Street.

Highlighting Local Products

The original concept for my contribution to this week's cover stories on shopping small was to shine a light on the plethora of local products available. Carmel Honey Company is widely recognized, but there are numerous other honey varieties on the market. Monterey County labels encompass everything from cider to spirits, tea and coffee, bacon and cheese, jams and jellies – the options are truly abundant. For instance, I have never managed to compile a comprehensive list of olive oils.

One of the challenges, however, is that the marketing presence of some small local kitchens is quite minimal. It's as if they exist only in the shadows until you chance upon them, perhaps at a place like Windmill Market in Salinas or Elroy's Fine Foods in Monterey, or by pure luck at a farmers market.

Thankfully, neighborhood markets are stepping up and making space for these small local producers. This leads us to the story of how the folks at Nielsen Brothers, Grove Market, Jerome's, Star Market, Bruno's, and others source these items and bring them to the shelves. You can discover all about it in this week's edition of the Weekly or online.

Benefits of Shopping Local

Shopping local not only supports the local economy but also ensures the freshness and quality of the products. By choosing local honey, for example, you are getting a product that is likely to be harvested and processed close by, resulting in a more authentic taste. Local wines offer a unique flavor profile that reflects the terroir of the region. And when it comes to groceries, supporting local producers means having access to a wider variety of products that may not be found in chain stores.

Moreover, shopping local helps to preserve the cultural heritage of an area. These small producers often have a deep connection to the land and the community, and their products tell a story. By purchasing their goods, we are helping to sustain these traditions and keep them alive.

In addition to the economic and cultural benefits, shopping local also has a positive impact on the environment. By reducing the distance that products need to travel, we are reducing carbon emissions and helping to create a more sustainable future.

How to Support Small Producers

While it may not be possible for everyone to spend hours picking through farmers markets on weekdays, there are still ways to support small producers. One way is to make a conscious effort to purchase local products whenever possible. This could mean choosing local honey instead of imported varieties or opting for local coffee over a national brand.

Another way to support small producers is to spread the word about them. Share your experiences with local products on social media or with friends and family. By doing so, you are helping to increase the visibility and popularity of these small businesses.

Finally, consider becoming a member of a local food cooperative or subscribing to a local produce box. These initiatives allow you to support small producers on a regular basis and ensure a steady supply of fresh, local products.

The search for small producers continues, and with your support, we can help to make Monterey County a hub of local goodness. Plus, don't forget your Sunday Paper for more shopping inspiration!