We're about to shift seasons again. That means a whole new influx of fresh fruits and vegetables that are typically grown at this time of year. While many of us are able to afford to eat whatever we want whenever we want it, we miss out by not eating seasonally. By choosing to eat produce when it grows we are often able to get food that is more nutritious, that tastes better, and potentially is grown closer to home.
People used to know when certain foods were in season and to enjoy those food for that period of time when they were available. No longer, now with global food distribution we can take advantage of strawberries in December, asparagus in the Fall and the like. But is this a good thing?
Food that is grown out of season is usually picked early and then stored in warehouses until it can be shipped to it's eventual destination. Don't be fooled however, even food eaten in season may still travel quite a distance to reach you. Using the chart below you'll be able to learn what is in season when and to choose to eat those foods when they are at their peak of freshness. As to the distance traveled? Although many stores are now starting to label local produce they don't always label everything. That requires talking to your grocer or market to see where your food comes from.
Thanks for sharing this, Mira. I eat a ton of fresh fruits and veggies so this is great information to have.
I LOVE eating seasonal and am on first-name basis with all the folks at the nearby farm stands. This morning, I had my fresh, local, organic spinach and Swiss chard smoothie… It was my first one with Swiss chard in it, and it resulted from a conversation with my pals at the farm stand. Love, Katherine
Katherine C. H. E.
Author, Be True Rich
Having your own plum tree must be wonderful. They’re so tasty and such a healthy fruit.
I love seasonal produce! and we are just starting to enjoy the abundance of our very own plum tree – it’s such fun to pick our own plums and eat and share them with friends and neighbors!
Great visual to use for fresh items in season!
I always wonder about the fruits seasonally. Some of the veggies I know because I had a garden, but other than apple picking season, I never know the best time of year for melons or berries.
What a great visual and easy reference to enjoy the abundance of fresh food available in season – thanks for sharing