There’s nothing more refreshing than biting into a fresh, juicy peach or sweet, crisp corn on the cob in the summer. Certain fruits and vegetables, such as avocados, basil, blueberries, cucumbers, mangoes, melons and tomatoes, are in season this time of year.
However, eating produce that is in season has many benefits in addition to simply better taste:
Good for your budget
Let’s be honest: we college students don’t always have the extra money in our budgets to blow on expensive fruits and vegetables at the grocery store. That’s why it’s important to buy foods that are in season. Due to the basic law of supply and demand, the abundance of local seasonal produce makes it less expensive. Check out farmers markets in your area for cheap, local produce. Visit the Union Street Farmers Market in downtown Gainesville Wednesdays from 4 to 7 p.m. in Bo Diddley Plaza.
Packed with flavor and nutrients
Being “in season” means that particular crop is in its growing season and at peak freshness. Tomatoes harvested during the summer when they are in season are obviously going to be fresher and more flavorful than tomatoes grown in a hothouse during the winter. Plus, eating seasonal produce is easier on your body. Certain foods, such as cucumbers and watermelons, with high water content have a cooling effect on your body when you eat them. This is good to keep in mind during the hot summer months.
Variety throughout the year
Getting in a food rut can leave you unexcited and indifferent about what you eat. The best way to get out of a boring rut is to add variety to your diet. When you’re conscious about what foods are in season different times of the year, you will be rewarded with variety and abundance. Experiment with fresh herbs, like basil and mint, during the summer, and hearty root vegetables and greens, like squash and kale, during the winter. This will keep your taste buds entertained throughout the year.
