What's In Season

Eat local…..ever wonder what’s in season? With modern food processing and worldwide distribution of foods, the grocery shelves often look the same from season to season. We don’t think twice about strawberries in the fall or squash in the spring. Our food often comes from thousands of miles away. We’re accustomed to eating food that’s never grown roots in local soil. When we eat foods coming from around the world we have no idea what standards are used to assure their safety.. Just look at the recent outbreaks of foodborne illness that have involved produce. What is the alternative?  Eat Local!

I love Saturday at my local farmers market. The sights, smells of good things pulled out of the soil and local music are what bring most people to the farmers market. We think of the farmers market as a spring and summer event, but even in the fall there are apples, potatoes, peppers, squash and so much more! I want fresh, organic produce and I want to support our vanishing local farmers.  Another bonus is local foods are more nutritious. Foods lose nutrients while in shipment and sitting in the store.  Buying local just makes sense.

To find your local farmers market: http://apps.ams.usda.gov/FarmersMarkets/

This is a quick guide to seasonal produce you may find at your local farmers market.  Some produce will vary by region..

Article courtesy of Liz Barna