THE JOYS OF EATING "IN SEASON" FRUITS & VEGETABLES
THE JOYS OF EATING "IN SEASON" FRUITS & VEGETABLES
Ah, the wonders of eating seasonally! It's not just about what you eat; it's when you eat it that matters too. Let me break down some of the fantastic benefits of indulging in locally grown, in-season produce.
Tastes Better: There's something truly magical about the flavour of in-season fruits and veggies. When they're allowed to ripen naturally on the vine or tree and get picked at the perfect moment, they become irresistibly sweet, juicy, and full of nutrients. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you for this delicious upgrade!
Light on the Wallet: Here's a little secret: eating in-season is a budget-friendly choice! When farmers harvest a bountiful crop during the season, the prices drop, making it easier on your pocket. Since local produce doesn't have to travel far or endure long-term storage, you get to enjoy the savings passed on directly to you.
Fresher and More Nutritious: It's no surprise that fresher is better when it comes to your food. In-season produce is more likely to be fresh, consumed closer to its harvest time, and packed with higher nutritional value. Vital nutrients like Vitamin C and folate tend to dwindle when stored for extended periods. By savouring locally sourced, in-season fruits and veggies, you're giving your body a wholesome boost.
Dodge Overseas Contaminants: When produce comes from distant lands, you might not be aware of the regulations governing pesticides, herbicides, and fungicides. Different countries have different rules, and some chemicals used overseas may be harmful and banned elsewhere. Eating in-season and locally grown eliminates the uncertainty, offering you safer and healthier choices.
Catering to Your Body's Needs: Mother Nature knows best! In each season, she gifts us specific foods to meet our nutritional needs. Think about citrusy delights in winter, loaded with Vitamin C to fight off those nasty colds. In contrast, summer brings us vibrant stone fruits with beta-carotenes to protect our skin from the sun. Your body craves these seasonal offerings, so listen to its wisdom.
Eco-Friendly Choices: When you opt for seasonal eating, you're supporting local farming and reducing the demand for out-of-season produce. This means less transportation, refrigeration, and greenhouse gases, making it a more environmentally-friendly choice. So you get to savour delicious, nutritious food while also caring for the planet—win-win!
Here are some seasonal food guides:
So, the next time you hit the supermarket, let the seasons guide your choices. Embrace the freshness, the flavours, and the incredible benefits of eating in harmony with nature. Your taste buds, your wallet, and the planet will all thank you for it!