Choose Foods Seasonally!

By Carolina Jantac, MS, RDN, LD |

Eating seasonally is a great way to improve your overall health and nutrition. You get the freshest and most nutritious produce when you buy seasonal foods.  Here are a few reasons why it’s important to buy foods that are in season:

Nutrient Density: Foods in season are often at their peak regarding nutrient density. This means they have more vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants than their out-of-season counterparts. For example, in the summer, you can find an abundance of fresh berries, which are high in vitamin C and antioxidants.

Better Taste: Seasonal foods often taste better because they are picked at the peak of ripeness. This means they are more flavorful and have a better texture than foods out of season. For example, a ripe, juicy peach in the summer will taste much better than a peach shipped from across the country in the winter.

Lower Cost: When foods are in season, they are often less expensive because they are plentiful. This means you can save money on your grocery bill while getting the freshest, most nutritious produce.

Support Local Farmers: Buying food in season also supports local farmers and the local economy. When you buy produce from local farmers, you are supporting small businesses and helping to keep money in your community.

How can you start buying foods that are in season? The easiest way is to shop at your local farmers’ market. These options offer a variety of seasonal produce that is often locally sourced and organic. Another option is to pay attention to the produce section of your grocery store and look for signs that indicate which items are in season. In conclusion, eating seasonally is a great way to improve your health, support local farmers, and save money. Choosing foods in season ensures you get the freshest, most nutritious produce available. So, next time you’re shopping for groceries, look at what it is in season and enjoy the benefits of eating with the seasons!

According to the USDA, here is a list of summer fruits and vegetables that we will soon be able to enjoy:

Many Medicare Advantage plans provide home-delivered meals and produce bundles to their members. To learn more about home-delivered meals, go here!