Fall time is just around the corner, and with a new season comes new local fruits and veggies to dive into! Eating local is a practice that has become more widely encouraged as the seasons go by. It is the perfect way to support local growers, as well as eat the freshest produce, all while enjoying some fun activities.
Shopping for home-grown fruits and vegetables supports your local economy and keeps the green land in your area thriving. It also prevents contamination within the food you consume and keeps all those pesticides away from your diet. In addition, supporting local farmers and providers comes with a variety of nutritional benefits. Vegetables and fruits can lose their nutrients in as fast as 24 hours. Eating from local providers can save you the loss of nutrients from shipped-in produce. You are getting the freshest possible foods by eating fruits and veggies that are picked when they are ripe.
Here’s our mini-guide to grabbing the freshest produce in town.
Eating Local is Easy and Enjoyable
You don’t have to go out of your way to eat locally. Many supermarkets, such as Publix and Whole Foods, are known for working with hometown growers to provide consumers the freshest foods possible. However, if you are looking for a fun weekend activity while grabbing some fresh produce, you can head to your town’s farmer’s market or “pick-your-own” farms.
Taking advantage of farmers markets is the perfect way to get your hands on the freshest fruits and vegetables in town. A quick Google search can find you some of your local farmer’s markets, or you can visit the USDA (U.S. Department of Agriculture) website and use their search directory. Farmer’s markets have a number of different vendors that you can speak directly with about their produce or cooked foods. It is a great way to gain some knowledge alongside doing your grocery shopping.
Many towns also have “pick-your-own” farms. Generally, the owner will hand you a basket and allow you to pick your own fruits and vegetables straight from the ground. It’s the perfect family activity and makes produce “shopping” a bit more fun! Here is a list where you can find a pick-your-own farm close to you.
What’s in Season Right Now?
The climate in Florida makes the Sunshine State the perfect place for eating locally grown produce. Of course, citrus fruits thrive here. But what’s best to grab during the fall season?
If you are planning on growing your own veggies, here is a list of some of the perfect seeds to plant during these upcoming cooler months:
- Beets
- Broccoli
- Brussel sprouts
- Cabbage
- Cauliflower
- Celery
- Kale
- Lettuce
It is imperative to do some research before starting your own garden, as each plant requires different care and maintenance.
If you simply want to buy your own produce this fall, check out this master list of what Florida grown fruits and vegetables are in season.
If you are looking for a new way to improve your diet and enhance the quality of what you consume, eating local is the perfect place to start. Welcome in the fall season by getting your hands on the best seasonal produce Florida has to offer!
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