Seasonal produce is one of the many advantages of spring. People start planting gardens and preparing for their harvest as the weather warms up. Eating with the seasons puts fresh fruit and vegetables at your fingertips at affordable prices. Additionally, selecting seasonal produce provides numerous health benefits for your body and the environment. From local farm stands to growing your fruits and vegetables, discover the myriad benefits of eating with the seasons.
What Does Seasonal Eating Mean?
Seasonal eating refers to selecting fresh fruits and vegetables grown during their respective seasons. As a result, you enjoy consuming the freshest produce with robust flavors and textures. Additionally, the freshest fruits and vegetables contain the highest levels of nutrients.
Consider the fruits and vegetables harvested during the season when you make your grocery shopping trips. Make a list to include them on your menu for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Visiting local farmers’ markets ensures you get the freshest possible produce in season and helps support neighborhood businesses.
Save Money and Support the Local Economy
One of the most measurable benefits of seasonal eating is saving money on fresh fruits and vegetables. Buying in-season ensures you get the cheapest prices on the best foods. Seasonal dishes bring a touch of variety and flavor to your regular menus.
Buying from local farmers allows you to select the finest seasonal produce in your preferred quantities. Plus, you are helping to support the local economy by visiting neighborhood businesses. These companies employ people and help keep the local economy strong while providing healthy foods.
Learn About Seasonal Produce
Visiting a farm is one of the easiest ways to learn about the benefits of seasonal eating. A local farmer knows which produce is in season and can help you choose the best options. Neighborhood farms often sell other healthy foods to complement fresh fruits and vegetables.
Speaking with people in the farming industry can help inspire you to start a backyard garden. While this requires planning, it is an excellent way to learn more about the benefits of a seasonal eating approach. Even those with limited space can start container gardens or grow herbs and other healthy items on a windowsill.
Conclusion
Seasonal produce helps reduce your food budget and enhance your daily diet. The freshest fruits and vegetables contain the highest levels of vitamins and minerals, making them ideal additions to your menu. Additionally, fresh produce tends to have the most flavor. While seasonal produce helps you eat better and become healthier, it also supports the local economy. When you purchase produce from a local farmer, you are supporting neighborhood businesses and helping to keep people in your area employed.
