I just found a great tool on the
NRDC's Web site (National Resource Defense Council): a guide that tells you what produce is in season in your state. So for early November in Illinois, a few of the listed items include:
They also list the in season produce in the neighboring states as well as a list of produce that is almost always flown in from a far away country, including:
- Asparagus (Peru)
- Bell peppers (Netherlands)--currently in season, so stock up now and freeze for later
- Cherries (Chile)
- Raspberries (Chile)
- Peaches (Chile)
- Nectarines (Chile)
- Click here to see the full list
So just in case you're wondering how eating local and in-season can be good for your health. Well there are a lot of reasons. It's best to eat food shortly after harvesting/picking because the longer they sit, the more nutrients they loose. It also reduces pollution (which is always good for your wellness) because the food doesn't have to be transported over hundreds and thousands of miles. Another reason is that it simply tastes better when it's in season and local. There's a lot more reasons, so please post a reason.
1 comments:
I am so proud of Peoria - we are moving in the right direction with many local farmers producing organic produce and organic meat, eggs and milk. We MUST support these farmers as it is our only chance for healthy food. Most food travels hundreds if not thousands of miles to our tables and is either highly processed and devoid of nutrients, or not very fresh. Michael Pollan states that there is a direct correlation between health and the distance from real, fresh food. The farther food has to travel to get to us, the less healthy we will be. Please frequent any of the three (yes, THREE) farmers markets available seasonally in Peoria - Downtown at the Riverfront, The Metro Center and Peoria Heights. Quality local food! These farmers work very, very hard to provide us with healthy options. Eating seasonally is healthier, too. It may be a bit more expensive, but you can pay the farmer or you can pay the doctor - which do you choose??
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