EATING FOR THE SEASONS

The concept of eating foods that are in season typically receives less attention due to the constant availability of most foods in today’s markets. Large grocery chains will typically import foods year-round in order to meet demand.

But is it beneficial to buy foods that are shipped or imported from other countries? What are the benefits of eating local, in-season produce?

1.  IT MAXIMIZES NUTRIENTS-

By choosing local, in-season produce, the food is fresh and more nutritionally dense. This is due to the amount of time it takes for foods to grow, ripen and reach maturity. If picked too prematurely, foods will be lower in overall nutrients due to the ripening agents that are often needed.

In addition to the nutrient content, you may also notice differences in overall taste/flavor, with out-of-season produce tasting less robust or flavorful. This taste discrepancy is due to the overall lower nutrient content of out-of-season produce.

2.  IT SUPPORTS LOCAL FARMERS-

Not only is eating fresh in-season foods better for your health, but it also helps support local farmers. Buying produce at farmer’s markets, or from farms directly, supports practices that are good for your health, the environment and the local economy. Since the produce is grown locally and does not have to travel as far via plane or car, buying local helps reduce fuel emissions, directly benefitting the environment.

Often times buying local produce also makes it easier to buy organic, which is especially important for those items on the “dirty dozen” list (produce typically higher in pesticides), as foods that are in-season are typically cheaper and people can afford the organic options.

For example, late June in Arizona is especially in season for apricots, blueberries, cabbage, cantaloupe, cherries and cucumbers, so these food items should be cheaper, as they will naturally be available in more abundance. If you are curious about what is in-season in your area, check out this guide.

3.   IT DIVERSIFIES YOUR DIET-

Another benefit to eating with the seasons is the natural variation in foods consumed that will occur. This may promote trying new recipes and getting more creative in the kitchen. Experiment with produce that you have never heard of before- who knows, you may find some new favorite foods!