Seasonality
Sourcing seasonal foods is beneficial in many ways. Here is a brief introduction.
Buying food that is in season means a reduction in food miles and greenhouse gas emissions. Neither environmentally unfriendly means of transportation need to be used, nor are energy-intensive heated greenhouses needed to grow fruit and vegetables. In addition, fruit and vegetables that are in season are fully mature and have developed their full quota of vitamins and flavour. That is why seasonal fruit is often the healthier and tastier option. It also strengthens local producers and enhances an understanding of the local food culture.
While full colour may develop after harvesting, nutritional quality may not. For example, the total vitamin C content of red peppers, tomatoes, apricots, peaches and papayas has been shown to be higher when these crops are picked ripe from the plant.
