Why eat seasonally?
The concept of seasonal eating is not a new one. Before we had supermarkets to go to, people would grow their own foods and used what was available to them. Nowadays we are spoilt for choice with an abundance of vegetables and fruit available from all over the country and around the world. However it still makes a lot of sense to still eat seasonal produce.
Affordability
Eating food that is in season means it is generally in peak supply. So it's not only going to taste the best it's also likely to be a lot cheaper. Look out for specials in your supermarket or check out your local farmers market and talk to the growers about what is in season.
Looking after your environment
Locally grown seasonal foods have the biggest benefit for the planet as it takes less resources to transport and store your food. Transporting food by air generates 177 time more greenhouse gases than shipping it.
Support local
Whether you are heading along to your local farmers market or you are buying seasonal produce from the supermarket you are supporting local NZ growers. In supermarkets, keep an eye out for new country of origin labelling.
More nutrients
Foods that are grown and consumed during their appropriate seasons are more nutritionally dense providing our body with quality vitamins and minerals along with phytonutrients. Phytonutrients are the natural compounds that give plant foods their bright colour and unique flavour. There are more than 5000 phytonutrients and researchers are just starting to understand the many health benefits they have. Eating seasonally will naturally help you mix up the variety of fruit and vegetables you eat. This is one of the best ways to benefit from all the phytonutrients they provide.
Not sure what is in season? Check out your local countries nutrition websites for more information on what's in season near you.
