Written by: Kiritika Rana
Edited by: Kiritika Rana
Designed by: Advita G.
Published by: Kiritika Rana
Healthy eating is essential for the environment and humans. We must eat healthily to do activities or tasks in our lives. So why not eat seasonally which is good for us and the environment?
Benefits of Eating Seasonally
Nutritional Value:
Seasonal produce is often picked at the peak of its ripeness, which means it has a higher nutritional content. Fruits and vegetables that are allowed to fully mature on the plant before being harvested tend to have more vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants compared to those picked prematurely and shipped long distances.
Flavour and Taste:
Seasonal foods often have better flavour and taste. When fruits and vegetables are allowed to grow and ripen naturally, they develop their full flavour profiles. Eating produce when it’s in season can be a delight for your taste buds and enhance your culinary experience.
Environmental Sustainability:
Eating seasonally reduces the need for long-distance transportation and extensive refrigeration. When food is transported over long distances, it requires more energy for packaging, refrigeration, and transportation, contributing to greenhouse gas emissions. By consuming locally grown seasonal foods, you can help reduce your carbon footprint and support local farmers.
Support for Local Economy:
Choosing seasonal produce from local farmers and markets supports the local economy. It helps small-scale farmers and encourages agricultural diversity in the region. By buying directly from local producers, you can establish a direct connection with the source of your food and contribute to the vitality of your community.
Cost-Effectiveness:
Seasonal foods are often more abundant and cheaper during peak seasons. When produce is in season, there tends to be a surplus, leading to lower prices. Conversely, when fruits or vegetables are out of season, they may be scarcer and more expensive due to the additional costs of importing or growing them in controlled environments.
Connection to Nature and Traditional Eating:
Eating seasonally can help you reconnect with the natural rhythm of the seasons and traditional eating patterns. It allows you to align your diet with the local climate and promotes a sense of harmony with nature.
While there are numerous benefits to eating seasonally, it’s important to note that access to fresh, seasonal produce may vary depending on geographical location and local climate. However, making an effort to incorporate seasonal foods whenever possible can still have positive impacts on your health, the environment, and the local community.
Sources
https://www.cnn.com/2022/09/14/health/seasonal-food-produce-lbg-wellness/index.html
https://munskin.com/blogs/health-wellness/eating-seasonal-foods