Choose Produce That Is In-Season, Organic, & Local

Four Reasons to Choose Produce That Is In-Season, Organic, & Local

In today’s bustling world of supermarkets stocked with produce from all corners of the globe, it’s easy to overlook the benefits of opting for locally grown, in-season, and organic fruits and vegetables. However, making these choices can have significant positive impacts on your health, the environment, and the community. Here are four compelling reasons why you should consider choosing produce that is in-season, organic, and local:

1. Freshness and Flavor:
When you choose in-season produce that’s grown locally, you’re likely selecting fruits and vegetables that have been allowed to ripen naturally on the vine or tree before being harvested. This means they are at their peak in terms of flavor and nutritional content. In contrast, produce that travels long distances to reach your plate is often picked before it’s fully ripe to withstand the journey, resulting in a sacrifice of taste and nutrients.

2. Nutritional Benefits:
Locally grown, in-season produce tends to retain more nutrients because it spends less time in transit and storage. Vitamins and antioxidants can degrade over time, especially when exposed to heat, light, and air. By choosing fresh, local options, you ensure that you’re getting the maximum nutritional benefit from your fruits and vegetables.

3. Environmental Impact:
Opting for local, in-season produce also has positive environmental implications. Locally grown food typically travels shorter distances from farm to table, reducing the carbon footprint associated with transportation and refrigeration. Furthermore, organic farming practices emphasize sustainability and biodiversity, avoiding synthetic pesticides and fertilizers that can harm ecosystems and pollute water sources.

4. Support for Local Economy and Community:
Buying from local farmers and producers supports the local economy by keeping money circulating within the community. This economic support extends beyond the farm itself, benefiting local businesses and services. Additionally, buying local fosters a sense of community and connection by creating opportunities to engage with growers at farmers’ markets or through community-supported agriculture (CSA) programs.

The choice to prioritize in-season, organic, and local produce is not just about personal health and taste—it’s a decision that reverberates through environmental sustainability, community resilience, and economic vitality. By making informed choices about where our food comes from and how it is grown, we can contribute to a healthier, more sustainable future for ourselves and generations to come. So next time you’re shopping for produce, consider opting for that juicy, locally grown tomato or crisp organic apple—you’ll be making a positive impact, one delicious bite at a time.

Wondering What’s in Season?

Thanks to the folks at FoodWise for their very useful Seasonality Charts for VEGETABLES and FRUITS & NUTSSEAFOOD, and FLOWERS!

 

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Myra Nissen, CCH

Copyright © 2019–2022, Myra Nissen.
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This article was brought to you by Myra Nissen, CCH, RSHom(NA), Board Certified Classical Homeopath. Myra teaches women how to recognize their body’s unique needs and cues and uses Homeopathy to help empower women to take control of their bodies, health and well-being. Find out more, visit her blog www.myranissen.com/blog.