A Day on the Farm

There is something magical about the end of summer and beginning of fall- everyone seems to find their way to the nearest Farmer’s Market or Apple Orchard. Whether it is for the Instagram pictures or the laughs between friends, this season brings us together and reminds us of the origins of our food. So often we, myself included, take for granted the labor and expertise that goes in to the food lining grocery store shelves. And this time of year is the perfect opportunity to reconnect with the people and the Earth that support us.

Recently, I had the privilege of leading a group of first year medical students to Katchkie Farm in Kinderhook, NY. I had taken this same trip during the first week of medical school and was offered the opportunity to come full circle as a fourth year. Katchkie Farm & The Sylvia Center welcome children (and Medical Students) to meet their food where it’s grown and teach them how to take organic food from the ground and to their mouths.

All too often the food we see in the grocery store is picked based on appearance- whether it looks like a classic tomato. On the farm, we quickly realize food comes in every shape and shade and in fact we prefer the yellow to the red tomatoes. For children, as they develop their palates and their interest in food and cooking- exposing them to a variety of flavors is key. Not only that, but allowing them to interact with their food at its most natural and organic level (in the dirt) makes it fun, engaging, and a great learning opportunity that we often overlook at meal time.

As I look towards graduation and moving in to my own career as a resident physician, there is so much I hope to take from our time at Katchkie Farm, the local farmer’s markets, and the local farming community. Learning about farm fresh food near you can lower your grocery costs and increase the fun and nutrients in our meals. For those in the medical profession knowing about your community, its people and its food is critical and perhaps one of the best ways we can support our patients and our community.

If you would like to learn more about Katchkie Farm & The Sylvia Center - head on over to their site here! Look out for a Farmer’s Market near you and let us know your favorite foods to buy local & fresh!