I have been putting together a mini guide on fresh market update for every month (individually) and herbs and spices for every season as well. Why? Because I believe in eating in harmony with nature.
Growing up back in Turkiye, I never actually thought about seasonality. Because I didn’t need to. If fresh produce was available, it was in season. Things were simple back then. These days, you walk into your local supermarket and see all those summer fruits available in the middle of winter! This may seem convenient, but is it really worth it?
So, what are the benefits of eating seasonally?
Well, the number one benefits is that you get the best tasting, healthiest food available. While Australia produces a wide variety of fresh fruit and vegetable crops all year round, there are some products which only grow for a few months of the year. In these circumstances, growers store products in cold storage when they are out of season so Australians can purchase Australian products all year round. The reality being that much of the produce that ends up on your kitchen tables has been stored for months and travelled huge distances to get to you.
When purchasing fruit and vegetables which are not in season you need to consider how the produce was manufactured, with things like; was it picked unripe, frozen and then gassed to ripen? If the ripening process of the produce is disturbed, so is its nutrient content. Most fruits and vegetables reach their nutritional peak around the same time they should be harvested. Not only will they taste better but their nutrient content would be higher. For example, the redder a red tomato is, the more beta-carotene it contains.
When produce is in season locally, the relative abundance of the crop usually makes it less expensive. You may have noticed the astronomical price of cucumbers in winter or oranges in summer.
So, when you are picking up fresh produce next time, remember that seasonal eating not only has more nutrient value, but you will be supporting your local farmer too.
Medical Disclaimer: All information contained in this blog is for informational purposes only. It is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent health problems. For all serious health issues, please contact a medical or nutrition practitioner. The information provided in this blog is based on the best knowledge of the author at the time of writing and we do not assume liability for the information within this email, be it direct or indirect, consequential, special, exemplary, or other damages. In all circumstances, it is always wise to consult your physician before changing your diet, taking supplements or starting any exercise or health program.