From Farm To Fork: The Science and Joy of Seasonal Eating
As we welcome the holiday season with open arms, let’s also welcome our November in-season produce! Eating seasonally has numerous benefits from taste and nutrition to environmental and economic.
Optimal Flavor and Quality: Foods that are in season are at their peak of ripeness and flavor. They are harvested at the right time of year, which means they haven't spent too much time in transit or storage allowing you to purchase fruits and vegetables with more nutrition and taste.
Enhanced Nutrition: Seasonal foods are also more nutritious. They are harvested when they are meant to be, and this results in higher levels of essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. For instance, winter squash and sweet potatoes are excellent sources of vitamins and fiber this time of year.
Supports Local Agriculture: Eating seasonally promotes local agriculture and sustains local farmers. When you buy produce that's in season, you're more likely to purchase from nearby sources, which strengthens your local food system. This support is crucial for soil quality and in rural areas while ensuring a diverse and thriving food supply.
Reduced Environmental Impact: Seasonal foods often require fewer resources for production and transportation. This can lead to a reduction in the carbon footprint associated with your meals. Eating locally and seasonally helps reduce the environmental strain caused by long-distance transportation and storage.
Less Chemical Intervention: Seasonal produce is more likely to be grown in harmony with its natural environment as opposed to being forced to grow in excess requiring the use of GMO’s and pesticides. When foods are grown out of season, they often require more chemical interventions, such as glyphosate and artificial ripening agents, to reach your plate. This means that seasonal foods are healthier in general.
Cost-Efficient: Seasonal foods are usually more affordable because they are abundant during their peak harvest times. If you've ever noticed how the price of strawberries drops during strawberry season, you've experienced this cost-efficiency firsthand.
Diversity in Diet: Eating seasonally encourages a diverse and varied diet. It encourages you to try new foods and experiment with different recipes, as the available choices change with the seasons. This allows you to meet the different vitamin and mineral needs the body has.
Food Safety: In-season produce is generally fresher and less likely to have been exposed to the kind of handling and storage conditions that can lead to contamination or spoilage.
When we embrace the natural ebb and flow of the food supply, we can enjoy tastier, more nutritious, and environmentally friendly meals while supporting local agriculture and economies. Take a peek below to see what’s in season this month!
November seasonal produce
Pomegranate
Persimmon
Cranberries
Pears
Apples
Brussels
Sweet Potato
Parsnips
Turnips
Winter Squash
Porcini Mushroom
Kale
Swiss Chard
