BY KAYLA LINDQUIST, MS, RDN/LDN, CLS
As the sun stretches its arms and the soil warms up, Minnesota bursts into a vibrant tapestry of seasonal produce. From crisp greens to succulent berries, the summer season in the Land of 10,000 Lakes offers a cornucopia of fresh, locally-grown delights. As a dietitian, I advocate embracing this bounty not only for its flavors but also for its nutritional benefits and positive impact on the environment.
Eating in season means consuming foods that are naturally ripe and harvested during a specific time of the year in your region. In Minnesota’s summer, this translates to a plethora of fruits and vegetables that are at their peak freshness, flavor, and nutritional value. Let’s delve into why eating in season is not only beneficial for our health but also for the planet, and how you can make the most of it in your diet.
- Nutritional Superiority: When fruits and vegetables are in season, they are typically harvested at their peak ripeness. This means they are packed with nutrients, including vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. For instance, Minnesota’s summer bounty includes vitamin C-rich strawberries, which support immune health, and potassium-packed cucumbers, which help maintain electrolyte balance.
- Enhanced Flavor: Have you ever tasted a tomato fresh off the vine in midsummer? The burst of flavor is unparalleled. Seasonal produce is allowed to fully ripen on the plant, leading to superior taste and texture compared to out-of-season counterparts that may be harvested early and ripened in transit.
- Support for Local Farmers: By choosing seasonal produce, you’re not only supporting local farmers but also contributing to the local economy. Buying directly from farmers’ markets or joining a Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) program fosters a connection with the people who grow your food and ensures that they receive fair compensation for their labor.
- Environmental Benefits: Eating in season reduces the carbon footprint associated with food transportation. Locally grown produce travels shorter distances from farm to table, thereby decreasing greenhouse gas emissions. Additionally, seasonal crops are more likely to be cultivated using sustainable farming practices, further minimizing environmental impact.
Are you curious about what’s in season and when it’s in season? Check out the attached PDF graphic from the Minnesota Department of Agriculture to learn more about seasonal produce in Minnesota and what will be in peak season for summer.
By embracing the bounty of Minnesota’s summer harvest and eating in season, you not only nourish your body with wholesome, flavorful foods but also support local farmers and reduce your environmental impact. So, next time you’re at the market or planning your meals, let the seasons guide your choices and savor the freshness of summer in every bite.
For a PDF download of what’s in season by month in Minnesota, https://minnesotagrown.com/whats-in-season/
RESOURCE: MN Grown (MN Department of Agriculture) https://minnesotagrown.com/
PHOTO SOURCE: Mosaic Farms
Kayla Lindquist, Registered Dietitian