Have you ever noticed that certain fruits and vegetables seem to be cheaper and tastier during certain times of the year? It may seem perplexing at first, but it all has to do with buying in-season produce. In-season produce refers to fruits and vegetables that are naturally ripened and harvested during specific times of the year. Not only is it more delicious, but it can also save you money on groceries. In this article, we will explore the advantages of purchasing in-season produce, cooking ideas for each season, and where to find your produce.
What does in-season mean?
In-season produce can be defined as fruits and vegetables that are naturally ripening and harvested around a specific time of the year. It means that in-season produce is the peak of freshness and availability during a particular season. For instance, fresh strawberries are typically in season during late spring and early summer, while apples tend to come off in the fall.
Seasonal produce mirrors the natural growing and harvesting cycles, affected by factors such as geographic location, climate, and weather conditions. In-season fruits and vegetables mature properly, developing essential sugars, vitamins, and minerals, which become much more flavorful and nutritious than when grown out of season or out of their region.
Buying in-season produce means purchasing fresh fruits and vegetables that are naturally abundant in your area during a particular time of the year. This choice is not only more environmentally friendly but can also save you a significant amount of money on your grocery bills.
In-season produce is typically pricing lower compared to out-of-season varieties, due to less demand, and easier accessibility. When a particular fruit or vegetable is abundant, there is usually a more significant supply, and retailers are inclined to price it lower to move their inventory.
In-season produce requires less labor-intensive farming practices, as plants are naturally adapted to the growing conditions during that specific season. Thus, farmers pass less cost onto retailers, who can offer more attractive prices to consumers.
In contrast, when produce is grown out of season, growers rely on technological advancements, such as heating lamps and greenhouses, which require extra care and energy costs. As a result, these practices increase the production and transportation expenses, ultimately contributing to higher prices for out-of-season fruits and vegetables.
Buying in-season produce is a smart choice for consumers who want to eat fresh, healthy, and affordable food while also supporting their local economy and community.
If you’re interested in more tips for grocery shopping and healthy eating on a budget, check out this article.
Why is buying in-season produce cheaper?
In-season produce is cheaper because it requires less resources to produce. When you buy in-season produce, you’re buying fruits and vegetables that are being grown and harvested at the time of year when they naturally thrive. Because of this, they require less resources to cultivate, transport, and store. When produce isn’t in season, it requires more effort to grow and transport it, which adds to the cost. For example, if you were to buy raspberries in the middle of winter, they would likely be coming from a greenhouse or having to be transported from a different country, which drives up the cost.
Another reason in-season produce is cheaper is due to the laws of supply and demand. When there is an abundance of a specific fruit or vegetable, prices will go down to encourage people to buy it. When there’s not as much product available, prices go up. This is why you’ll often see certain fruits or vegetables on sale during peak season.
Lastly, when you buy produce that’s in season, you’re supporting local farmers, which can be a more cost-effective option. If you’re buying apples in September in New York, those apples are going to be less expensive than if you were to buy apples in December in California. When you buy locally, you’re not only getting produce that’s in season, but you’re also supporting your local community.
By understanding why in-season produce is cheaper, you can make more informed decisions when it comes to grocery shopping. Buying in-season produce is one of the easiest ways to save money on your groceries while still getting high-quality, nutritious food. For more tips on affordable healthy eating, check out our article on creating a healthy grocery list on a budget.
Benefits of buying in-season produce
Buying in-season produce can have numerous benefits for both your health and your wallet. In season produce is not only cheaper, but it is also better quality, fresher and tastes better too. Here are some of the top benefits of buying in-season produce:
You get better quality produce: In-season produce is naturally at its peak, meaning that the quality, texture and flavour are at their best. These fruits and vegetables are usually grown locally and picked at the right time, ensuring that they are as fresh as possible. When produce is picked out of season, it needs to be stored for longer periods of time, which can result in it losing its nutrients and flavour.
You save money on groceries: Seasonal produce is often cheaper than out-of-season produce which needs to be sourced from different parts of the world, and has additional costs associated with storing and transporting it. By choosing in-season produce, you can often save money on your grocery bill which means you’ll have more money for other items. You can also use the money saved to purchase higher quality varieties of produce.
You get to try new things: By shopping for in-season produce, you may discover new fruits and vegetables that you have never tried before. Seasonal produce can also be a great way to add variety and excitement to your meals, instead of buying the same fruits and veggies every week.
Additionally, buying in-season produce can have environmental benefits too. Produce that is shipped to your local store from other parts of the world requires more energy and resources to transport, which can leave a much larger carbon footprint. By choosing local, in-season produce, you are helping to reduce the environmental impact of your food choices.
Seasonal produce is not only better for your health and taste buds, but also better for your wallet and the environment. Incorporating in-season produce into your meal plan can be a great way to save money on your groceries while keeping your meals healthy and delicious. Check out our meal plan for a healthy week for some recipe inspiration, and consider combining these tips with our grocery store tips for healthy and cheap shopping, our bulk healthy shopping tips, discount stores for healthy groceries and our ways to save money on healthy groceries with coupons and deals to make the most of your in-season produce purchases.
You get better quality produce
When produce is in-season, it means that it is being grown and harvested at the peak of its natural growing cycle, which results in better quality produce. Additionally, in-season produce has not traveled long distances to reach grocery stores or farmer’s markets, meaning that it is generally fresher and more flavorful than out-of-season produce.
In-season produce also tends to be much more affordable than out-of-season produce, which allows you to stretch your grocery budget further. When you purchase out-of-season produce, you are paying for the cost of transportation and storage, as well as for the fact that the produce is less abundant because it is not being naturally grown and harvested during that time.
Buying in-season produce supports local farmers and provides an economic boost to your community. As local farms sell more of their produce to the community, they are able to reinvest in their farms, hire more workers, and produce even higher quality produce.
One great way to take advantage of in-season produce is to sign up for healthy meal prep kits that feature seasonal produce. These kits provide you with all the ingredients you need to make healthy, seasonal meals at home, and they can be a great way to try out new recipes and ingredients that you might not have otherwise tried.
Buying in-season produce is a win-win, allowing you to save money while also enjoying the best quality and flavor that nature has to offer. By shopping seasonally, you can make the most of your grocery budget and support your local community at the same time.
You save money on groceries
One of the biggest advantages of buying in-season produce is that it can save you a significant amount of money on your grocery bill. When produce is in season, it’s abundant and doesn’t have to be shipped from far away, which means that it’s less expensive to produce and transport. This cost savings is passed on to the consumer, making in-season produce much more affordable than out-of-season produce.
To put it into perspective, let’s take the example of strawberries. In the winter months, when strawberries are not in season, they may cost an average of $4 per pound. But during the peak of strawberry season in the summer, you may find them for as little as $1-2 per pound. The same goes for other seasonal produce like watermelon, tomatoes, and bell peppers.
Buying in-season produce can also help you stretch your grocery budget further. Instead of spending money on expensive out-of-season produce, you can stock up on cheaper, in-season options. This means that you can buy more produce for your money, which is great news if you’re trying to eat healthy on a budget.
If you plan your meals around what’s in season, you can save money on other grocery items too. For example, if you’re making a salad with in-season veggies like lettuce, cucumbers, and tomatoes, you might not need to buy as many additional salad toppings like croutons or cheese. This can help you save even more money on your overall grocery bill.
Buying in-season produce is a smart way to save money on your grocery bill without sacrificing quality or taste. By planning your meals around what’s in season and being mindful of the cost savings, you can enjoy delicious, healthy produce without breaking the bank. So the next time you’re at the grocery store, be sure to check out what’s in season and take advantage of the savings. For more tips on how to shop healthy on a budget, check out our article here.
You get to try new things
When you buy in-season produce, you have the advantage of discovering new fruits and vegetables that may not have been available to you before. The selection of produce is constantly changing depending on the season and this can make every trip to the grocery store or farmer’s market an exciting adventure. Trying new things can be intimidating, but it is also a great way to expand your culinary creativity and improve your overall health.
For instance, in the summer, there are a variety of colorful berries, including strawberries, raspberries, and blueberries that are at their peak during the season. These fruits can be used for salads, smoothies or even as toppings for your toast. Not only are they delicious and easy to incorporate into your diet, but they also offer a wide range of nutrients and antioxidants.
In the fall, squash and pumpkins are in season, and these vegetables can be used to make soups, pies, and even pasta dishes. They are also rich in essential vitamins and minerals, making them an excellent addition to your diet.
During winter, root vegetables such as turnips, parsnips, and sweet potatoes are abundant. These vegetables can be roasted, mashed, or even made into chips. They are an excellent source of dietary fiber and other nutrients that can help to keep your body healthy during the colder months.
In the spring, asparagus and artichokes are in season. These vegetables are delicious and have numerous health benefits such as aiding digestion and reducing inflammation in the body. One can make omelets or pasta dishes with these ingredients.
Trying new fruits and vegetables can be a fun and rewarding experience, especially when you incorporate them into your meals in creative ways. So, why not take advantage of the wide variety of in-season produce available to you and experiment with a few new ingredients in your cooking? Not only will you expand your culinary horizons, but you will also be doing your body a favor by consuming a variety of nutrient-dense foods.
Ideas for using in-season produce in your cooking
One of the best things about buying in-season produce is the opportunity to try new and exciting recipes in your kitchen. When produce is in season, it’s at its peak freshness and flavor, making it perfect for showcasing in delicious meals. Here are some ideas for using in-season produce in your cooking:
Spring: In the spring, look for fresh asparagus, strawberries, greens like spinach and arugula, and peas. Use asparagus in a stir-fry or roasted with garlic and lemon. Make a strawberry balsamic vinaigrette for your salad with fresh spinach or arugula. And try making fresh pea soup with mint for a light and refreshing meal.
Summer: During the summer months, there is an abundance of fresh and colorful produce available, including heirloom tomatoes, sweet corn, zucchini, and watermelon. Grill some zucchini, eggplant, and bell peppers for a seasonal veggie kabob. Make homemade tomato sauce with fresh basil or add sweet corn to your summer salad for some crunch. For dessert, try grilling watermelon and topping it with feta cheese and basil for a sweet and savory treat.
Fall: As the weather starts to cool down, look for hearty produce like winter squash, apples, and brussels sprouts. Roast butternut squash to make a creamy and delicious soup or add sliced apples and cranberries to your favorite holiday stuffing recipe. You can also make roasted brussels sprouts with balsamic glaze for a tasty side dish.
Winter: During the winter months, citrus fruits like oranges, tangerines, and grapefruits are at the peak of their season. Use fresh citrus juice to make a tangy salad dressing or cook up some spaghetti squash for a healthy pasta alternative. You can also roast root vegetables like carrots, parsnips, and turnips for a delicious side dish.
By incorporating in-season produce into your meals, you’ll not only get to enjoy the delicious flavors and textures of fresh produce but also support local farmers and save money on your grocery bill.
Spring
Spring is a season of renewal and growth, and it’s also a great time to take advantage of in-season produce. Asparagus is a spring staple and a favorite for many people. It’s a versatile vegetable that can be grilled, roasted, or steamed. Peas are another popular spring vegetable that can be used in a variety of dishes like salads, pastas, and soups. They are sweet and tender, and they add a pop of green color to any dish.
Radishes are a refreshing and crunchy vegetable that are also in season during the spring. They are great in salads or as a garnish for tacos or sandwiches. Fava beans are another spring favorite that are rich in protein and fiber. They can be used in salads or pasta dishes and pair well with other spring vegetables like asparagus and peas.
Strawberries are a sweet and juicy fruit that are at their peak during the spring. They are perfect for snacking on their own, but they can also be used in desserts like pies and cakes. Rhubarb is another spring fruit that is commonly used in desserts like pies and crisps. It has a tart flavor that pairs well with sweeter fruits like strawberries.
Artichokes are a unique and flavorful vegetable that are in season during the spring. They can be grilled or roasted and are often served with a dipping sauce like aioli. Spinach is another versatile vegetable that is in season during the spring. It can be used in salads, pastas, and soups and is a great source of iron and vitamins.
Spring is a great time to experiment with new recipes and take advantage of the fresh, in-season produce available. Try incorporating some of these spring vegetables and fruits into your cooking for a delicious and healthy meal.
Summer
During the summer, there is an abundance of fresh and flavorful produce available at a lower cost due to its in-season availability. Some of the best in-season produce during the summer months includes sweet corn, tomatoes, watermelon, cucumbers, and berries.
One great way to use sweet corn is to grill it with a little bit of butter and salt for a sweet and savory side dish. Tomatoes are perfect for making fresh salads or pasta sauces. Watermelon can be used to make refreshing salads or popsicles. Cucumbers are wonderful for making tzatziki dip or adding to salads for extra crunch. And berries are perfect for making pies or adding to smoothies for a nutritious and tasty breakfast option.
When shopping for in-season produce during the summer, look for bright colors, firm textures, and a sweet aroma. Avoid any produce that appears to be wilted, discolored or has soft spots.
You can find in-season produce during the summer at farmer’s markets, grocery stores, and CSA programs. Buying in-season produce from a local farmer’s market or CSA program can also provide you with the opportunity to try unique and heirloom varieties that you may not find in grocery stores.
To make your in-season produce last longer, store it properly. Tomatoes and berries should be stored in the refrigerator, while sweet corn and watermelon should be kept in a cool, dry place. Cucumbers can be stored in the refrigerator or at room temperature depending on how quickly you plan to use them.
Taking advantage of in-season produce during the summer not only saves you money but also provides you with fresh, flavorful, and nutritious options for your meals. So, next time you’re out shopping, be sure to look for those in-season treasures and enjoy the taste of summer!
Fall
Fall is a wonderful time of year for produce, and there are many delicious options to choose from. One of the best things about fall produce is the variety of flavors and textures that are available. Strongly colored, hearty vegetables come into season, which are great for roasting, grilling, or making soups and stews.
Apples are one of the most popular fall fruits, and they come in many different varieties. From sweet to tart, there is an apple for every taste preference. Apples are also very versatile in cooking, and can be used in many different dishes.
Pears are another popular fall fruit, and they have a sweet, delicate flavor. They make a great addition to salads, or can be used in desserts like pies and cobblers.
Pumpkins are a quintessential fall vegetable, and are not just for carving into jack-o-lanterns. Their sweet and tender flesh is great for baking pies, muffins, and bread. They also make a delicious addition to soups and stews.
Winter squash, like butternut squash, acorn squash, and spaghetti squash, are all great for roasting or grilling. They have a hearty and sweet flavor that is perfect for fall and winter dishes.
Brussels sprouts are a hearty and flavorful vegetable that is great for roasting or sautéing. They have a slightly bitter flavor that pairs well with sweet or tangy flavors.
Cauliflower is a versatile vegetable that can be roasted, grilled, or mashed. It has a mild flavor that pairs well with many different spices and seasonings.
Sweet potatoes are a classic fall vegetable and are great for roasting, grilling, or baking. They have a slightly sweet, nutty flavor that is perfect for fall dishes.
These are just a few examples of the many delicious fall produce options. By buying in-season produce, you can get the best quality produce at a lower cost, while also enjoying the many health benefits and delicious flavors of fall.
Winter
During the winter, some of the produce that is in-season include citrus fruits, apples, pears, brussels sprouts, beets, and carrots. These fruits and veggies are perfect for creating warm, comforting meals during the cold winter months.
For example, citrus fruits like oranges and grapefruits can be used in salads or as a snack, while apples and pears can be baked in pies or made into sauces. Brussels sprouts can be roasted with olive oil and garlic for a delicious side dish, while beets can be roasted and served as a salad. Carrots are versatile and can be roasted, made into soups or stews, or used in stir-fries.
Aside from being delicious, buying in-season produce during the winter can save you money on your grocery bill. Winter produce is typically less expensive since it doesn’t need to be shipped from far away and can be sourced locally.
You can find in-season winter produce at various places like farmer’s markets, grocery stores, and CSA programs. Just be sure to properly store your produce to make it last longer. For example, root vegetables like carrots and beets should be stored in a cool, dry place, while apples and pears should be kept in the refrigerator.
By buying in-season produce during the winter, you can not only save money, but also enjoy the delicious flavors and unique opportunities that come with each season’s harvest.
Where to find in-season produce
When it comes to finding in-season produce, there are several options available. Farmer’s markets are a great place to start. They offer a wide variety of fresh, locally grown fruits and vegetables. You can interact directly with farmers and have the opportunity to ask them about their growing practices.
Many grocery stores also carry in-season produce. The advantage of going to a grocery store is that you have a wider selection to choose from, and you can compare prices and quality. However, keep in mind that the produce may have been shipped from other parts of the country or even other countries, so it’s important to check the labels and ask questions about their origin.
Another option for finding in-season produce is to participate in CSA programs, or community-supported agriculture. These programs allow you to purchase a share in a local farm’s produce. Each week during the growing season, you’ll receive a box of fresh produce straight from the farm. This is a great way to support local agriculture and have a guaranteed supply of in-season produce.
No matter where you choose to look for in-season produce, it’s important to pay attention to quality and freshness. Look for produce that is firm, free of blemishes or bruises, and has a bright, vibrant color. This will ensure that you’re getting the best flavor and nutrition from your fruits and veggies.
Farmer’s markets
One of the best places to find in-season produce is at your local farmer’s market. These markets are a great way to support local farmers and get fresh, in-season fruits and vegetables. Unlike grocery stores, where produce may be shipped from across the country or even internationally, farmer’s markets offer locally grown produce that is picked at peak ripeness. This means that the produce is not only fresher, but it also retains more nutrients and flavors compared to out-of-season produce found in grocery stores.
Another benefit of shopping at farmer’s markets is the ability to talk directly to the farmers themselves. They are often happy to share information about their farming methods and tips on how to prepare the produce. Additionally, since the produce is local, it’s easier to find unique and unusual varieties that aren’t typically found in grocery stores.
When shopping at a farmer’s market, it’s important to bring cash since many vendors may not accept credit or debit cards. It’s also a good idea to bring reusable bags or containers to reduce waste and make transportation easier. Remember to ask about their growing practices and if they are certified organic or follow sustainable farming methods.
Visiting a farmer’s market can be a fun and educational experience for the whole family. You can find recipes and cooking ideas from the farmers themselves, and even sample some of the produce before buying. So, make sure to check out your local farmer’s market next time you’re looking for fresh, in-season produce.
Grocery stores
One of the most common places to purchase groceries is from mainstream grocery stores. Luckily, most of these stores usually carry a decent amount of in-season produce. You can find fresh vegetables and fruits all year round, but buying them while they are in-season can lead to significant savings.
Seasonal placement: When you visit a grocery store, you’ll notice that most of the produce on display is in-season. The store typically purchases the produce from local farmers so that they don’t have to import them from elsewhere, which can raise the overall cost. The produce is generally cheaper when in-season, and the stores usually have an abundance of it.
Discounts: Grocery stores also offer discounts on in-season produce to encourage shoppers to buy them. You might find a “sale” or “discount” sign next to the produce section indicating the percentage of the discount. This can be a great way to save money on groceries.
Higher quality: When you purchase in-season produce from a grocery store, you’re buying fresh produce that hasn’t traveled long distances to reach you. This means the produce is likely to be of higher quality and taste better than if it was imported from elsewhere. You also have the benefit of being able to screen each piece of produce for imperfections or damage, and choose the best items for your family.
Variety: Shopping at grocery stores offers a diverse range of in-season produce options. Depending on the size of the store, you might find items that are unique to your area or ones that you want to try for the first time. It can also be a great way to experiment with new dishes or get cooking inspiration.
To make the most out of your grocery store experiences, try to purchase produce from the different sections of the store. Be sure to check the price tags and quality of the produce, and compare it to other stores in your area. By doing this, you can ensure that you’re getting the best possible deals on in-season produce.
CSA programs
Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) programs have become increasingly popular in recent years. These programs allow consumers to support local farmers by purchasing a share of their harvest. When you participate in a CSA program, you’ll receive a weekly or bi-weekly box of produce that was grown locally and is in-season.
The produce you receive will vary depending on what’s currently being harvested, but you can expect a diverse range of fruits and vegetables. Since the produce comes directly from the farm, it’s often fresher and more flavorful than what you’ll find in the grocery store.
CSA programs also offer a unique opportunity to connect with your local farming community. You’ll get to know the farmers who are growing your food and learn more about where your food comes from. Some CSA programs even offer farm tours and other events that allow you to see firsthand how your food is produced.
While CSA programs require an upfront investment, they can be a cost-effective way to get high-quality, in-season produce. Since you’re buying directly from the farmer, there’s no middleman markup, and you’ll usually get a better value for your money.
If you’re interested in signing up for a CSA program, start by researching local options in your area. Many CSA programs have websites or social media pages where you can learn more about their offerings and sign up for a share. Keep in mind that CSA programs can sell out quickly, so it’s best to sign up early to ensure you get a spot.
CSA programs are a great way to support local farmers, try new fruits and vegetables, and get fresh, in-season produce at an affordable price. Consider signing up for a CSA program in your area to enjoy the many benefits of eating in-season produce.
Tips for storing in-season produce
When it comes to storing in-season produce, there are a few tips to keep in mind to help extend its lifespan and keep it fresh.
Don’t wash produce before storing: While it may be tempting to wash your fresh produce before storing it, this can actually cause the produce to spoil faster. Moisture can get trapped and cause mold or bacteria to grow. Instead, wait to wash your produce until right before you’re ready to use it.
Store produce in the right place: Different types of produce require different storage conditions. For example, leafy greens should be stored in the fridge, while tomatoes should be stored on the counter. Keep fruits and vegetables separate – fruits release ethylene gas that can cause vegetables to spoil faster.
Use appropriate storage containers: Certain types of produce, such as berries or mushrooms, require a more tightly sealed container to keep them from drying out. Others, like root vegetables, can be stored in a paper bag. Be sure to use the appropriate container for each type of produce you’re storing.
Use your produce quickly: While storing your produce properly can help extend its lifespan, the best way to ensure freshness is to use it as quickly as possible. Consider planning your meals around what produce you have on hand in order to use it up before it spoils.
Know when to freeze: If you find yourself with too much in-season produce and are unable to use it all up before it spoils, consider freezing it. Fruit can be sliced and frozen for smoothies, while vegetables can be chopped and frozen for soups or stir-fries.
By following these tips for storing in-season produce, you can help reduce food waste and get the most out of your grocery budget.
Conclusion
In conclusion, buying in-season produce is not only a great way to support local farmers, but it also has numerous benefits for your wallet and your taste buds. You can enjoy the freshest and highest quality produce at a lower cost, while also getting the opportunity to try new and exciting ingredients.
Remember to check what’s in season before you head to the store or farmer’s market. This will help you plan your meals based on what’s available and avoid overspending on out-of-season produce.
Consider joining a CSA program or visiting a farmer’s market to get the best deals on in-season produce. Not only can you save money, but you can also chat with the farmers and learn more about where your food comes from.
When cooking with in-season produce, let the flavors shine through by keeping it simple. Try roasting or grilling vegetables, or adding them raw to salads and sandwiches. Don’t be afraid to experiment with new cooking techniques and flavor combinations.
Finally, make sure to store your in-season produce properly to maximize its freshness and flavor. Keep fruits and vegetables separate, and store them in the appropriate temperature and humidity levels.
So next time you’re at the grocery store or farmer’s market, embrace in-season produce as a way to save money and support local agriculture. Your wallet and your taste buds will thank you.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the benefits of buying in-season produce?
Buying in-season produce is cheaper, fresher, and often tastes better. It’s also better for the environment because it reduces the need for transportation to bring food from other areas.
How can buying in-season produce save me money?
In-season produce is usually sold at a lower price because there is an abundance of it. When there is a surplus, farmers and grocery stores will often lower the price to encourage customers to buy more.
What does “in-season” mean?
In-season means that produce is being harvested at its ripest and freshest state during a particular time of the year. The seasonality of produce varies depending on the climate and weather patterns of the region it’s being grown in.
Where can I find in-season produce?
You can find in-season produce at local farmer’s markets, grocery stores, and even in CSA programs.
How do I know which produce is in season?
You can ask the farmer or grocer what produce is in-season, or do some research online to find out what’s typically harvested during a specific time of the year in your region.
What are some ideas for using in-season produce in my cooking?
You can use in-season produce in a variety of ways, such as incorporating them into salads, grilling them, making a stir-fry dish or soup, or even pickling or preserving them for later use.
Why is in-season produce often better quality?
In-season produce is often better quality because it doesn’t have to travel as far, meaning it’s fresher and hasn’t had to endure lengthy transport and storage times.
What are the benefits of shopping at farmer’s markets for in-season produce?
Shopping at farmer’s markets can provide access to locally sourced produce that’s often picked at the peak of ripeness, and you can learn about where your food comes from and how it’s grown.
What are some tips for storing in-season produce?
Some tips for storing in-season produce include storing it in a cool, dry place, washing it just before using it, and avoiding overcrowding in storage containers to prevent spoilage.
How can I incorporate in-season produce into my meal planning?
You can plan meals around what’s in-season, and incorporate the produce into your favorite dishes or try new recipes to take advantage of the available produce.