Why Eat Local and Seasonal Produce
Proofreader, Copy Editor, & Collaborator: Helena Ramadan, MS RDN ACE-CHC
Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links. If you click on one of them and make a purchase, we may receive a small commission at no additional cost to you. Every affiliate link is for an item that we have personally purchased and endorsed.
As the temperature gradually increases and the colorful signs of spring slowly emerge, the allure of fresh produce in grocery stores and local farmers’ markets is becoming undeniable. Suddenly, you start to see certain types of produce in baskets aplenty. But have you ever wondered why these items steal the spotlight, becoming more available, tasty, and budget-friendly? The answer lies in understanding how to eat local and seasonal food with the help of the United States Department of Agriculture’s (USDA’s) growing zones. If you aim to choose fruits and vegetables at their peak, exploring the significance of these zones is essential for savvy produce shopping and a healthier budget and waistline.
Pin this Post to Pinterest to Share or Read Later
What is a USDA Growing Zone?
You may be asking yourself right now, what the heck is a USDA growing zone? Farmers and gardeners alike use the USDA growing zones, also known as “plant hardiness zones,” as a guide to determine when to plant specific crops according to their geographical location within the US.
By entering your zip code into the USDA's interactive zone map, you can identify your specific zone, ranging from 1a (coldest) to 13b (hottest). These zones indicate the average annual extreme winter temperature ranges in a given area.
Knowing when certain crops are growing and being harvested can help you select and eat local and seasonal produce that is both at its peak and widely available. Personally, I use the growing zone information to determine when to plant seeds and grow my own food.
What is Local and Seasonal Produce?
Seasonal produce refers to plants — fruits, vegetables, and herbs — that are grown and harvested at their natural peak, offering an abundance of produce with unparalleled flavor and nutritional benefits. By aligning your meal planning and purchases with the seasons, you support local farmers, reduce environmental impact, and embrace a sustainable approach to nourishing your body and the planet.
Why Eat Local and Seasonal Produce?
Though many fruits, vegetables, and herbs are imported from warmer climates year-round, they may not be optimal food selections. That’s because premature picking and long transportation times can alter the flavor and nutritional value as well as contributing to a negative ecological footprint.
Additionally, eating in-season, when produce is at its cheapest, may result in your grocery budget staying in check. It’s also a great time to explore less familiar foods and step out of your culinary comfort zone to discover new and exciting flavors.
Highlight on Spring Seasonal Varieties
Do you recall that first juicy-sweet bite of an in-season strawberry that reminds you that spring is finally here? Or maybe you have purchased your favorite veggie just to find out that the flavor is not quite how you remembered it? This is one of the many reasons why knowing which crops are in-season is so important when trying to eat local and seasonal foods.
As previously mentioned, which foods that are considered “in season” will depend on your location, geography, and climate. Cool weather crops are frost-hardy plants, or plants that are more likely to survive if the weather suddenly turns cold, that typically grow in cooler climates. They also may grow earlier in the growing season since too-warm temperatures can cause them to bolt, producing seeds which prevent further harvesting and often causing a bitter flavor.
In cooler climates, spring produce examples include:
Asparagus
Broccoli
Carrots
Celery
Greens/lettuce
Garlic
Herbs
Kale
Peas
Strawberries
Mushrooms
Onions
In warmer climates, you can enjoy:
Apricots
Artichokes
Avocados
Beets
Citrus
Kiwi
Radishes
Cherries
Herbs
For a full list of seasonal produce available by state, check out Food Print’s Seasonal Food Guide.
Where to Find the Best Local and Seasonal Produce
When determining where to find fresh produce, there are many options available, each with their own unique advantages. Growing plants from seed or seedlings is a cost-effective approach, allowing you to cultivate your own fruits and vegetables at home. This can be a fun way to explore new hybrid or tried-and-true heirloom varieties which will add color and flavor to your dinner plate.
Another option is to look up local farmers in your area to discover where you and your family can personally pick produce from the vine and partake in sampling (and purchasing) homemade products like jams, sauces, baked goods, and other deliciously preserved delicacies.
In addition, most grocery stores offer a larger variety of choices when produce is in season and abundant, ensuring a diverse selection with low prices and discounted deals. I’ve even seen locally-sourced produce advertised at my chain stores.
Finally, farmers markets are fantastic places for those seeking ready-to-eat produce among other goodies. Choosing to buy from these local sources is often less expensive compared to imported or out-of-season options. Moreover, the quality of locally sourced produce tends to be superior, as it is harvested at its peak ripeness with minimal transportation needs.
How to Use Fresh Produce
Not familiar with rhubarb? Never learned what to do with a beet? This is your opportunity while the prices are low and the produce is at its tastiest!
Plan meals around local and seasonal produce to get your fill of fresh fruits and veggies. Experiment with creative recipes and cooking techniques. If you are feeling a little adventurous, test some preservation methods like drying, canning, and freezing to enjoy your favorite produce even when out of season.
Using fresh herbs can add depth to dishes and learning a new cooking method can help you discover a recipe that your whole family will want in your regular meal rotation. Integrating seasonal produce into your routine will not only enhance the flavor of your meals, but also ensure a nutrient-rich and satisfying meal experience.
Why Eat Local and Seasonal Produce: In Summary
Now that you understand a little bit more about the growing zones and the benefits of buying seasonal produce, you should be well on your way to making informed choices when it comes to selecting optimal fruits, veggies, and herbs for the Spring season and beyond. By aligning your food choices with what's local and seasonal, you not only savor the peak flavors and nutritional benefits, but also contribute to sustainable agriculture and support local farmers.
Whether you're cultivating your own garden, exploring farmers markets, or navigating grocery store aisles, being mindful of your geographical zone also ensures a more informed and rewarding produce selection. Embrace the diversity of spring's bounty, experiment with creative recipes, and employ preservation methods to enjoy nature's offerings throughout the year. In doing so, you nourish your body, tantalize your taste buds, and play a part in fostering a healthier, more sustainable food system for everyone. Happy eating!
Interested in learning more? Follow us on social media at Pinterest and Instagram!⬇️⬇️
Acknowledgments: We thank Helena Ramadan, MS, RDN, ACE-CHC (Owner of Healthier with Helena) for her contribution to this work as a proofreader, copy editor, and collaborator. This article is part of a RD-to-RD collaboration with the goal of providing accurate, reliable nutrition information to empower others to live their best, healthiest lives.
References:
Fromherz, Kurt. Understanding USDA Growing Zones: Navigating Hardiness and Selecting Plants - Redwood Nursery & Garden Center. 10 Jan. 2024, https://redwoodnursery.com/2024/01/10/understanding-usda-growing-zones-navigating-hardiness-and-selecting-plants/.
2023 USDA Plant Hardiness Zone Map | USDA Plant Hardiness Zone Map. https://planthardiness.ars.usda.gov/. Accessed 27 Feb. 2024.
Map Downloads | USDA Plant Hardiness Zone Map. https://planthardiness.ars.usda.gov/pages/map-downloads. Accessed 27 Feb. 2024.
“Seasonal Produce Guide.” SNAP Education Connection, http://snaped.fns.usda.gov/resources/nutrition-education-materials/seasonal-produce-guide. Accessed 27 Feb. 2024.
“Seasonal Food Guide.” FoodPrint, https://foodprint.org/eating-sustainably/seasonal-food-guide/. Accessed 27 Feb. 2024.
Suggested Citation: Loufman, Larissa M. Eat the Seasons Series: Why Eat Local and Seasonal Produce. (March 4, 2024). The Global Harvest RD LLC, 2024. Available at: www.theglobalharvestrd.com/resources/articles/why-eat-local-and-seasonal-produce.
Author Bio
Larissa M. Loufman, MPH, RD, LD, CLC, CCRC is a Registered Dietitian and Public Health Professional with a passion for healthy living & supporting people in their wellness journey’s. As Founder & Owner of The Global Harvest RD, she empowers others to discover their healthiest & happiest lives through nutrition, gardening, and travel.
Follow Her Online
Website: www.TheGlobalHarvestRD.com
Instagram: @The_Global_Harvest_RD
Pinterest: @TheGlobalHarvestRD
Disclaimer: Although Larissa holds the designation of Registered Dietitian (RD), it is important to clarify that she does not provide Medical Nutrition Therapy (MNT) through this website and her company, The Global Harvest RD. The information presented on this site is intended solely for educational and informational purposes. It is crucial to recognize that nothing within this site or the resources provided should be construed as professional medical advice. Readers are advised that the author assumes no responsibility for any losses or damages arising from actions or the failure to act based on the content found on this website. It is emphasized that the information presented here is not intended for the diagnosis or treatment of any health conditions. For personalized medical advice, it is strongly recommended to consult directly with your local healthcare or medical provider team to make sure that this advice is right for you.
