Former SD farmer here. The markets you’ve stated are legitimately run by individuals who seek out “real” farmers. I’m not sure where you are from but the majority of the agriculture here in San Diego is citrus and avocado. There are few “actual” row crop farms in San Diego. The land and water are too expensive. In Border Field State Park, Erik at Pixaca farm sells his products from the farm stand at the corner of Sunset and Hollister. That corner is home to a community garden and he sells his products there. Coronado has the only “farmers only” market on Tuesday afternoons. Most of the other markets in town have “real” farmers whose products come from other parts of California. Legally if someone is reselling products they must be in the uncertified section of the market. Otherwise you will see JR Organics, Be Wise, Coastal Roots (those are the biggest players in the region) in the certified section. De La Ranch does meat. Those farms are from San Diego and are certified. Any other growers in that section are also certified farmers. This time of year it’s mostly greens, cruciferous vegetables, and roots that grow-that’s what’s in season. Peas and strawberries should be coming in around March. Not sure what you’re looking for in terms of actual produce. Small dairies are illegal in California because of the pasteurization process though if you get in good with someone you might get to be part of a goat milk co-op or meat co-op. Those aren’t certified The produce is more expensive than grocery stores and I could spend a lot of time explaining why that is. It boils down to a few things. Local labor and insurance is expensive. Additionally, the farmer has to take a chance on what might actually sell at the market. Everything that isn’t sold T the end of the market is practically trash. Yes it ca be composted. But that’s expensive compost. Wholesale prices pay less directly to the farmer-farmer gets squeezed on Pennies. At the market you’ll build a relationship with the farmer and cc other vendors. It’s a third space where you are part of and build community. You put the dollars directly into the hands of the individuals stewarding the land instead of to the corporation squeezing the bottom line. Answer from Hot_Ground_761 on reddit.com