When you walk into the grocery store, you’re greeted with a colorful array of fresh produce from all over the world. But did you know that not all fruits and vegetables are currently in season? Seasonal eating is all about consuming fruits and vegetables that are locally grown during their official growing season. In this article, we’ll explore the benefits of seasonal eating and provide you with tips on how to incorporate it into your daily life.
Why Eat with the Seasons?
Seasonal foods are fresh and the most nutritious
There’s nothing quite like the taste of fresh produce. When fruits and vegetables are picked at the perfect time, they are at their peak in terms of flavor and nutrition. They tend to be sweeter and higher in nutrients such as vitamin C and potassium, which are essential for our health and performance.
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Seasonal foods taste better
Have you ever noticed that food grown out-of-season tends to lack flavor? That’s because it’s often harvested early so it can travel long distances, resulting in a loss of flavor. Additionally, out-of-season food may require artificial ripening with gases while stored in boxes as they are shipped. On the other hand, seasonal food epitomizes the flavors of the season, offering a true culinary experience.
Seasonal food supports the community
When you buy seasonal food grown in your area, you’re not only supporting local farmers but also contributing to the strength and sustainability of your community. Your money goes directly to the farmers who share your values, fostering a closer connection between producers and consumers.
How to Eat with the Seasons
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Eating with the seasons is easier than you might think. Here are some tips to help you get started:
Know your seasons
A great way to eat seasonally is to familiarize yourself with the seasonal calendar of your region. Many state agricultural departments or extension offices provide seasonal calendars that can guide you in choosing what to eat when.
Find a local farmers market or farm stand
Farmers markets are a fantastic resource for finding seasonal produce. They can be found year-round in most places, and they offer a diverse selection of locally grown fruits, vegetables, and other products. Local Harvest is an excellent resource for finding farmers markets near you.
Use Community Supported Agriculture (CSA)
Community-supported agriculture (CSA) is a system that connects farmers and consumers directly. By subscribing to a CSA, you can receive a weekly box of seasonal produce from a local farm or group of farms. Not only does this support local agriculture, but it also ensures that you’re getting the freshest, tastiest produce at the best price.
Try at-home canning and freezing
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If you live in a region with a short growing season, such as Colorado, you can extend the life of seasonal produce by canning or freezing it. This allows you to enjoy the flavors of the season all year round and reduce food waste.
Look for stickers that say ‘Local’
When shopping at your neighborhood grocery store, keep an eye out for stickers that indicate the produce is local. This means that the fruits and vegetables are in season in your area, ensuring freshness and flavor.
Think beyond produce
It’s not just fruits and vegetables that have seasons – fish and meat do too! If you have access to fresh seafood, opt for the catch of the day. Choosing seasonal seafood supports sustainable fishing practices and ensures the highest quality.
FAQs
Q: Can I still eat healthy if I don’t eat seasonally?
A: Absolutely! While eating seasonally has its benefits, it’s important to prioritize a well-balanced diet overall. Incorporating a variety of fruits and vegetables, regardless of the season, is key to a healthy and nutritious diet.
Q: Does eating seasonally save money?
A: Eating seasonally can help you save money, especially when you buy directly from local farmers or through a CSA. Seasonal produce is often more abundant and therefore more affordable.
Q: What are the environmental benefits of eating seasonally?
A: Eating seasonally can reduce the carbon footprint associated with transporting food long distances. Locally grown produce requires less packaging and preserves the freshness and flavor of the food.
Conclusion
Eating seasonally offers a host of benefits, from increased flavor and nutrition to supporting local farmers and reducing environmental impact. By incorporating seasonal produce into your diet, you can enjoy the best that each season has to offer. So the next time you visit your grocery store or farmers market, embrace the flavors of the season and savor the vibrant tastes of locally grown fruits and vegetables.
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