Before food markets evolved into the mega stores they are today—filled with every possible item you can think of all year round—eating seasonally was the standard diet plan. Consider going go back to the basics:
Loss of Nutrition.
Fruits and vegetables that cannot grow locally during the winter are imported from other countries. Throughout their transit via plane and trucks to the US, they inevitably lose their ripeness and the bulk of their nutrients. Conversely, fruits that are in season, or locally grown, have a much shorter distance to travel and maintain their vitamins. The best part is that naturally ripened fruits and vegetables taste better as well.
Higher Costs.
Buying imported fruits and vegetables at the grocery store may come with a higher price tag to make up for the costs associated with transportation and distribution. Conversely, when you buy fruits from a local farmer’s market or community garden, the grower determines the price. To add to your savings, you can walk away with greater pride in yourself for supporting local businesses.
Environmental Damage.
Large quantities of fossil fuels are burning each day, month, and year to transport produce around the world. Contributing to a global seasonal diet plan is another way to reduce the environmental damage that this practice causes.
