Benefits of Choosing Farm Fresh Produce

Eating farm fresh produce has a wide variety of health benefits. Locally grown is defined as food grown and harvested 100 miles from your home or the restaurant where it is served. It doesn't come from large commercial farms, and isn’t transported over long distances.  Local fresh produce can be found at farmer’s markets, roadside farm stands, pick-your-own food farms, and through community supported agriculture programs. You may even be able to find some locally grown produce in grocery stores that have added fresh foods from local farms to their produce departments. The main health benefit of farm fresh produce is that it’s fresher because it’s picked at its peak ripeness, when it’s most nutrient dense. Compared to commercial farms, there is no artificial air, lights, temperature changes, added chemicals or long transport time which cause food to lose nutritional value. Eating local also means you get to meet the people who grow your food so you can ask them any questions you may have about their produce or farming methods. Better quality soil and more sustainable farming practices typically mean better tasting produce! Shopping locally supports independent farms, helps grow your local economy, cuts transport costs, and reduces food waste which is great for the environment too! Expand your food horizons with a wider variety of colorful fruits and vegetables rich in vitamins and antioxidants at your local farmers markets!

Amisson, Liz. “Is Eating Locally Grown Food Healthier for You?” Virtua Weight Loss & Wellness, NJ, Virtua Health, 14 Sept. 2020, www.virtua.org/articles/is-eating-locally-grown- food-healthier-for-you.

Published on July 01, 2021