Five Reasons You'll Want to Buy Seasonal Foods....

Did you know that there are various ways in which we calculate and interpret the seasons around the world?  Depending on the region of the globe you're in, cultural and spiritual beliefs, and the "absolutes" of science and astrology--there could be any number of seasons happening on Earth at any given time.

The Aboriginals of Old in Australia used indigenous tribal systems dictated by the change in the plants, animals and weather.  The Hindus of India honor six seasons with the addition of the Monsoon and pre-hibernal seasons.  Here in the U.S. we observe the international meteorological definition of the season, which bears a strong root core in Pagan ritual and in the honoring of the Mother (Earth); and in China seasons are traditionally based on 24 periods known as solar terms and begin at the midpoint of solstices and equinoxes--this includes not only the fruits of the earth but of the sea.


Lucky for us Californians, the change in seasons isn't always too dramatic, and some fruits, vegetables  and seafood are available all year round.  The question is "do they taste as good, and are they as good for you, in certain seasons as they are in others"?  The answer to the question is simple and straight forward; "fruit, vegetables and yes, seafood tastes better when they're at the height of their season".  Now I know this concept can be a bit confusing due to the fact that it's hard to know when a particular food has hit it's peak, but I will give you the resources and tools you need to figure it all out!

The seasons are changing, and here in the Bay Area, we sit right on the cusp of Autumn.  There are still summer peaches at the farmers market and you can get sweet strawberries, tart raspberries, and fresh corn for the next few weeks to come.

It is not often that I experience nostalgia as I am ever welcoming the present; and yet I somehow, in our brief goodbye to Summer, am moved to jar and preserve the yummy delights that we must bid a fond farewell as the rainy Autumn approaches.  With this in mind, here are "five reasons you'll want to buy seasonal foods" at your local farmers market:

One.

Seasonal foods eaten at their peak taste better, fresher and often times are naturally sweeter.

Two.

By buying seasonal foods you are supporting sustainable framing traditions & practices in our region.

Three.

Foods picked at the height of their season are not only at their peak ripeness, but at their most nutritious.

Four.

Seasonal foods brought in from other countries cost more money to ship; So buying them reduces costs.

Five.

Seasonal foods picked just before selling at market are usually live; Live Foods are good for our bodies.

For more information on what's in season in your local area, and how to source seasonal foods visit the resources listed here below.  As always, we wish you good health, epicurean adventure, and happy eating!

Fruits and Veggies, More Matters:  http://bit.ly/MJjmzE

The Institute for Fisheries Resources:  http://bit.ly/NpxJPm

Whole 9 Seasonal Produce Guide:  http://bit.ly/zoiUY9

Farmers Market Guide for Alameda County:  http://bit.ly/rHvODi