Why Choosing Seasonal Fruits and Veggies is Both Rewarding and Fun While Also a Sustainable Practice
Going into the city during the farmers market season had always been a fun and rewarding experience for me. My joy was palpable no matter if I was buying a lot or a little. The combination of getting fresh, seasonal produce directly from farmers themselves in the middle of the bustling city while simultaneously enjoying a few hours of winding around produce stands was so delightful. I was always charmed by the colorful rows of produce as I enjoying the mouth-watering smell of the fresh baked goods. Additionally, it was talking with the vendors which filled me with glee, for I am conversational and find much pleasure in interacting with other people.
So you might be wondering, well, what are seasonal produce? When you choose to buy seasonal you are buying foods that are typically grown and harvested in accordance with the natural growing seasons in a specific region or climate. Seasonal produces are those harvested and consumed around the time they are naturally in pick of ripeness. Seasonal foods can vary from one geographic location to another, and they can be categorized into four main seasons: spring, summer, fall, and winter. But keep in mind that modern agriculture and technology can extend the availability of certain fruits and vegetables beyond their typical seasons in some areas. When buying seasonal you can buy from every type of store, such as your superstore, grocery store, convenience store, or directly from farmers. It’s always best to check with local farmers markets or grocery stores to find out what’s in season in your area!
Below I shed some light on common seasonal produce in different parts of the world assuming a temperate climate (a temperate climate is a type of climate characterized by moderate temperatures and distinct seasons):
Spring (March to May):
Fruits: Strawberries, Cherries, Apricots, Rhubarb, Pineapple, Mango, PeachesVegetables: Asparagus, Artichokes, Spinach, Peas, Radishes, Lettuce, Broccoli, Carrots
Summer (June to August):
Fruits: Blueberries, Raspberries, Blackberries, Watermelon, Cantaloupe, Plums, Tomatoes, Peaches, Nectarines
Vegetables: Zucchini, Corn, Bell peppers, Cucumbers, Eggplant, Green beans, Tomatoes, Summer squash
Fall (September to November):
Fruits: Apples, Pears, Grapes, Cranberries, Figs, Pumpkins, Persimmons, Pomegranates,
Vegetables: Sweet potatoes, Brussels sprouts, Cauliflower, Beets, Acorn squash, Butternut squash, Cabbage, Carrots
Winter (December to February):
Fruits: Citrus fruits (oranges, grapefruits, tangerines), Kiwi, Pomegranates, Apples, Cranberries, Vegetables: Brussels sprouts, Carrots, Parsnips, Kale, Broccoli, Spinach, Cauliflower, Turnips
For a more comprehensive resource for the United States regarding the seasonal produces where you can make selections by states, month of the year, and different produces, check the link below!
“Seasonal Food Guide” by Grace Communication Foundation: Seasonal Food Guide
I used to go to the superstores for groceries like most of you probably do right now. I’d generally go at the end of the week, oftentimes returning in a few days if I forgot to grab items. Personally, if you ask me, I find this back and forth from home to store to be tedious and somewhat boring. It’s always been a chore. I wonder, does this pertain to you, too? Lo and behold I’ve luckily found that farmers markets are a much more exciting place to buy fresh fruits and veggies. Whilst there I am able to shake off my boredom and put a smile on my face. So even though I haven’t stopped dragging my feet to the superstores, I have introduced myself to farmers markets – offering me the perfect alternation between the two.
Whether you’re hellbent on, or considering to, eat fresh, you should take the opportunity to go to a farmers market right in your community. Since they are local they sell products right after they harvest, in the peak of ripeness. This means they are fresher, have better flavor, and more nutritional value compared to out-of-season produce that may have been picked prematurely and transported long distances. They often contains higher levels of essential nutrients because they are allowed to fully mature on the plant. This can lead to a more nutritious diet. A trip to the farmers market is an experience that engages all your senses and leaves you with a genuine connection to the local produce and community. Come rain or shine I will find myself at the market; the vibrant colors and enticing aromas of fresh fruits, vegetables, and flowers immediately drawing me in like a moth to a flame. The lively atmosphere is invigorating – filled with the chatter of vendors showcasing their handpicked, organic offerings. The stalls are adorned with a wide array of produce, each item promising flavor and nourishment. Additionally, one can find dairy products, eggs, fish, poultry, and much, much more. Farmers markets are truly packed with everything!
To make your trip to the farmers market easier, here are some tips for when you go there:
- Arive early for the best selection: Farmers markets often have limited quantities of popular items. Arriving early ensures you have the widest selection to choose from.
- Bring cash and small bills: Many vendors at farmers markets prefer cash. Bringing small bills makes transactions easier.
- Bring reusable bags and containers: Reduce waste by bringing your own reusable bags and containers for fruits, vegetables, and other products.
- Ask questions: Engage with the farmers and vendors. Ask about their farming practices, how the produce is grown, or for cooking tips. They are usually happy to share their knowledge.
- Know what’s in the season: Ask farmers what seasonal produce they have before you go looking around.
- Sample before buying: Many vendors offer samples of their products. Take advantage of this to taste before you buy, especially if you’re trying something new.
- Compare prices and quality: Take a walk around the market before making purchases. Compare prices and the quality of produce to get the best deal.
- Be open to imperfections: Understand that produce from farmers markets might not look as perfect as what you find in supermarkets. Embrace the natural variations and imperfections.
- Plan your meals ahead: Have an idea of what meals you’ll be preparing for the week. Select the produce you need and make a list. This will help you buy the right quantities of each item and reduce waste.
- Be mindful of peak hours: If you prefer a quieter, more relaxed shopping experience, try going during non-peak hours. This might be later in the morning or early afternoon.
- Check market policies: Familiarize yourself with any specific rules or policies of the farmers market, such as whether dogs are allowed or if there’s a no-refund policy.
- Stay hydrated and wear comfortable clothing: Markets can be busy and sometimes crowded. Dress comfortably and carry water to stay hydrated throughout your shopping trip.
At the beginning of October I went to a small farmers market in our neighborhood here in Boston, MA. It wasn’t long before I made eye contact with a young gentleman manning the cash register, who shot me a bright and welcoming smile. I approached him, hands full of delicacies, and we began talking. He instructed me about the seasonal produces they had and politely explained where the rest of the products were coming from. It was a delightful conversation, and soon our chatter slipped into a more personal realm as he stated how proud he was for being apart of the third generation of farmers in his family. He also told me how many siblings he had, where the farm is located, and that he was in the business with both his father and uncle. See, this is the type of pleasant engagement you probably wouldn’t be able to have at a supermarket. It’s hard to find an employee that puts so much emotion and personal touch in marketing their products. It’s at farmers markets where you can transform a formal experience in a much more gratifying one with a little bit of personal touch. Invigorated, I had returned to the same farmers market the following week and I was greeted by the farmer I saw previously. It was really nice to see a friendly face, we chatted again, and it truly felt as though I made a friend. That’s what’s so wonderful about these farmers markets. These people take pride in their work – describing their sustainable farming practices, sharing tips on how to prepare their offerings, and providing samples for you to taste. You’re encouraged to ask questions, sparking a genuine exchange of knowledge and appreciation for the food you’re about to bring home.
As you head home you feel grateful and blessed for the wholesome experience. You know that the food you’ve purchased supports local farmers and promotes a healthier, sustainable way of living. It’s a trip that nourishes not only your body but also your spirit, leaving you with good memories and a desire to return soon. Farmers markets are about community, coming together, sharing experiences, supporting others, taking care of yourself, and living more sustainable. Such wonderful things!
Are you interested in finding a farmers market in your area? If you are located in the USA I have you covered: I came upon this valuable resource, USDA Local Food Directories (usdalocalfoodportal.com), provided by US Department of Agriculture. Here you can find a large database of farmers markets, agritourism, Food Hubs, or CSA Enterprises that covers your selected city, town, or area. Feel free to check it out! Unlike the other three, CSA Enterprises can deliver produce to you. CSAs are farms or associations of multiple farms that offer consumers regular (usually weekly) deliveries of locally grown farm products on a subscription or membership basis. You can make an advanced payment or pay a membership fee, and have access to a selected share or range of farm products offered by a single farm or group of farmers based on your membership subscription or advanced payment you choose to make. The produces can be delivered at your home or at certain locations in your neighborhood with a regularity based on the subscription you have. Alternatively, to find farmers market locations, you can check your city or town hall website for resources related to farmers market and similar venues.
Buying seasonal fruits and veggies directly from farmers is a great part in the effort to mitigate the environmental impact of food production. Purchasing seasonal produces directly from the vendors supports local farmers and reduces your environmental footprint, as it also ensures you’re enjoying fruits and vegetables at their tastiest and most nutritious. Buying seasonal from local farmers also helps reducing Food Miles. The term “Food Miles” represent the relation between food transportation and carbon emissions. Being an active participant in the solution to a better world can be a very rewarding feeling, so why not start now? In addition, simply choosing to eat seasonal fruits and vegetables can be a win-win for your health, your wallet, local communities, and the environment. It’s a simple yet effective way to make sustainable and health-conscious food choices.
If you want to find out how your diet contribute to the Climate Change, The New York Times has a quiz just for you! Click here:
Quiz: How Does Your Diet Contribute to Climate Change? – The New York Times (nytimes.com)
When fruits and vegetables are in season, there is usually an abundance of them, which can lead to lower prices. Out-of-season produce, on the other hand, may be more expensive due to the costs associated with transportation and storage. Eating seasonal produce supports local farmers and the local economy. It helps maintain agricultural diversity and ensures that small-scale farmers have a market for their products. Below I have selected the best resources I could find on seasonal products – mostly vegetables and fruits – in the USA, Canada, the UK and Europe:
What is in season in the USA, provided by GRACE Communications Foundation:
What is in season in Canada, provided by Canadian Food Focus Organization:
What’s in Season – Canadian Food Focus
What is in season in the UK, provided by Love British Food:
What’s in season, when? (lovebritishfood.co.uk)
What is in season in Europe, provided by European Food Information Council (EUFIC) :
Explore Seasonal Fruit and Vegetables in Europe | Eufic
In accordance with EUFIC website, their database combines national sources and features over 200 seasonal fruits and vegetables, covers 24 countries, and includes the six European climate regions. Wow!
Evidently seasonal fruits and veggies are the primary subjects that I’m advocating for in this article. If I’ve encouraged you to leave the house and opt out for a farmers market it would be ideal. Yet, if you find supermarkets or groceries stores more convenient to you that’s fine, too. You may lose the excitement that comes with vibrant rows of produce and chatty vendors yet still reap the rewards of having bought seasonally. Trust me, I understand the convenience factor – supermarkets may be more advantageous and accessible, with longer operating hours and such. Also in case that you look also to buy produce that is not in season, supermarkets offer a broader range of produce, including both local and non-local options you may find a variety of fruits and vegetables from different regions and climates.
It doesn’t have to be overwhelming! Here’s some tips to help you make the most of your seasonal produce shopping at grocery stores. By utilizing a combination of these methods you can stay informed about the seasonal produce available at your supermarket and make more informed choices during your shopping trips. First, familiarize yourself with what produce is in season and when. Look for sales and discounts to save money, inspect the produce for freshness, opt for organic options, be flexible with your shipping list, and don’t be shy – ask store employees for help in identifying which products are in season. These steps can ensure a successful trip to the store!
If You Didn’t Know, Now You Know:
Before I finish, I want to remind you of the destruction food production causes to our planet. The list I made below is just a glimpse into the terrible things that are occurring. Unfortunately food production has a significant impact on the environment, and this impact extends to many things including land use, water resources, greenhouse gas emissions, biodiversity, and more. Here are some key ways in which food production affects the environment:
Land use: Agricultural activities, such as crop cultivation and livestock farming, require vast amounts of land. As agriculture expands, it can lead to deforestation, habitat destruction, and the conversion of natural ecosystems into farmland. This loss of biodiversity can have long-term ecological consequences.
Water resources: Agriculture is a major consumer of water resources. Irrigation, in particular, can deplete freshwater sources, leading to water scarcity in some regions. Inefficient water management in agriculture can also contribute to soil erosion and water pollution due to runoff of fertilizers and pesticides.
Greenhouse gas emissions: Food production is a significant source of greenhouse gas emissions, primarily methane (from livestock) and nitrous oxide (from fertilizers and manure). Additionally, land-use changes associated with agriculture release carbon dioxide into the atmosphere. These emissions contribute to climate change.
Energy use: Modern industrial agriculture relies heavily on fossil fuels for mechanized farming, transportation, and processing. This energy consumption not only contributes to greenhouse gas emissions but also depletes finite energy resources.
Pesticides and chemicals: The use of synthetic pesticides and chemical fertilizers in agriculture can lead to soil and water pollution. These chemicals can harm non-target species, disrupt ecosystems, and even pose risks to human health.
Loss of Biodiversity: Large-scale monoculture farming can reduce biodiversity by promoting the growth of a single crop or livestock breed at the expense of other species. This loss of biodiversity can weaken ecosystems and reduce their resilience to environmental changes.
Waste and food loss: A significant portion of food produced is lost or wasted along the supply chain, from production and transportation to consumption. This waste contributes to resource inefficiency and environmental degradation.
Soil degradation: Unsustainable agricultural practices, such as overuse of chemical inputs and excessive tilling, can lead to soil degradation, erosion, and reduced soil fertility. Healthy soil is crucial for food production and ecosystem functioning.
Aquatic Ecosystems: Excessive nutrient runoff from agriculture can lead to water pollution, creating dead zones in rivers, lakes, and coastal areas. This pollution can harm aquatic ecosystems and disrupt fisheries.
Globalization of food supply: The globalization of food supply chains often involves long-distance transportation, which requires substantial energy and generates emissions. This contributes to the carbon footprint of food consumption.
We could get by as we may, but what would become of us when our land and waters are at their breaking points? In order for us to save this planet and strive to live in a better world, a world that is healthy, we need to live a more sustainable life. We need to work individually and together to address what we can do day to day. You don’t need to do something earthshattering right off the bat. You don’t need to go out and singlehandedly stop aquatic ecosystems from collapsing. Starting small will yield success, such as doing something as simple as buying seasonal produce. Small efforts such as this will help mitigate negative factors and will be fruitful if done on a daily basis. Doesn’t it make you feel good, knowing that you’re apart of a movement to better the world?