It’s officially time to say hello to spring… and to new produce that’s coming into season! From immune boosting citrus to vibrant carrots, this season is full of delicious. Fruits and vegetables always taste best when they are in season and harvested at the peak of freshness. Eating seasonal rewards you with many benefits – from eating fresh foods packed with nutrients, to savings in family budget.
Why Is It Important to Eat Food That’s in Season?
Seasonal food is fresher, better tasting and more nutritious than food consumed out of season. Think about the strawberries you eat during the winter, versus the ones you eat during the summer – there’s a huge difference in flavor! Even though we all like to eat strawberries year round, the best time to eat them is when they can be purchased directly from a local farmer shortly after harvest. Seasonal fruits and vegetables produced on local farms are often fresher, as they do not require long distances for transport. Also, unlike out of season produce which is harvested early in order to be shipped and distributed to your local grocery store, produce picked at its peak of ripeness is also much better tasting. Studies have also shown that fruits and vegetables contain more nutrients when allowed to ripen naturally on their parent plant.
The Importance of Eating Seasonally
Purchasing seasonally grown produce helps support local farms and maintains farmland and open space in your community. Local food supports the local economy, as well as small, family-owned businesses. The money you spend on products from local farmers and growers stays in the community and is reinvested with other local businesses. In addition, food grown locally, processed locally and distributed locally generates jobs and subsequently helps stimulate the economy.
Local farmers can tell you how the food was grown. When you buy directly from growers, you have the opportunity to ask what methods they use to raise and harvest the crops. When you know where your food comes from and who grew it – you know a lot more about your food.
Where Can I Buy Local?
Most of the produce included in the Seasonal Food Guide can be found at your local farmers markets, at local grocery stores and at restaurants and businesses committed to seasonal, local food. If you’re not sure, be sure to ask employees if their produce is locally grown
At Holy Schnitzel, we are proud to use the freshest produce available for our delicious menu.
Order Holy Schnitzel online today!