Why Eat Fruits and Vegetables In Season
While most produce sections look the same from season to season, finding fruits and vegetables in season may seem difficult and unimportant. We’re here to help you understand why it’s important to eat seasonal fruits and vegetables and what fruits and vegetables are in season now.
Technology has made it easier to sell fruits and vegetables year round, but it hasn’t made it easier to preserve the ripe taste. Eating in-season produce provides more nutrition and more flavor. Produce that’s not in season undergoes early picking, cooling, and heating that reduces the flavor. Fruits and vegetables in season spend less time from farm to table, so they maintain much of their nutrition and flavor.
In addition to having more nutrition and flavor, fruits and vegetables in season typically cost less. Growing in bulk is more common when produce is in season, and growing in bulk cuts cost. In addition, buying local produce cuts transportation costs, and local produce is more likely to be grown seasonally.
Lastly, our bodies are made to eat seasonally. Late fall and winter provide produce rich in vitamin C, which helps with wellness during cold and flu season. Peaches, nectarines, and other stone fruits found in summer contain vitamins that help protect against sun damage. Eating fruits and vegetables in season provides your body with necessary nutrients appropriate for the time of year
What Fruits and Vegetables Are In Season
Seasonal produce varies state to state, so it’s best to check online. Because of our location, this post focuses on Florida, but plenty of resources exist for other states.
Because of its moderate fall and early winter, Florida has plenty of fruits and vegetables in season throughout winter and spring.
Winter Fruits and Vegetables
Fruits and vegetables in season:
- Avocado
- Broccoli
- Brussel sprouts
- Cabbage
- Cauliflower
- Grapefruit
- Mushrooms
- Pears
- Squash
- Sweet corn
- Sweet potatoes
Spring Fruits and Vegetables
Fruits and vegetables in season:
- Artichokes
- Arugula
- Asparagus
- Beets
- Carrots
- Cherries
- Lemons
- Pears
- Peas
- Radishes
- Tangerines
- Spinach
Summer Fruits and Vegetables
Fruits and vegetables in season:
- Blackberries
- Blueberries
- Cherries
- Corn
- Green beans
- Peaches
- Plums
- Raspberries
- Tomatoes
- Watermelon
- Zucchini
Fall Fruits and Vegetables
Fruits and vegetables in season:
- Apples
- Broccoli
- Cabbage
- Celery
- Cranberries
- Edamame
- Eggplant
- Green onions
- Kale
- Pomegranate
- Potatoes
- Pumpkin
- Spinach
- Zucchini
Making the Most of Seasonal Produce
If a fruit or vegetable is in season, your body probably needs it! Take advantage of the nutrition and flavor benefits by using in-season recipes! Remember, buying fruits and vegetables in season is better for your body and better for your community.
