Local fruits and vegetables are in season! There are so many good ways and reasons to get your hands on fresh, nutritious, locally grown produce.
Right now is the time to enjoy all of the wonderful produce that Southwestern Pennsylvania provides. This includes visiting your local farmers market or picking it yourself at one of the family-owned farms. Another option is to sign up for a CSA (community supported agriculture). CSAs have grown a great deal in the Pittsburgh area in recent years. In fact, even 412 Food Rescue has gotten in on the trend by offering rescued ugly produce subscriptions.
Fresh, local produce tastes better and is more nutritious. Produce meant for a farmers market, CSA subscription, or hand-picked is at the height of ripeness. When produce is picked early and transported long distances it loses the nutrients. Some produce is force ripened and treated with chemicals in order to sit at the grocery store for longer periods.
Not only is local food good for your health, eating locally supports the local economy and helps promote sustainability. Plus, we all need to eat more fresh fruits and vegetables. According to the CDC, only 1 in 10 adults get enough fruits and vegetables.
Where to find a farmer’s market? New farmers markets are popping up in neighborhoods all of the time. The best way to find one close to you is to search online. Many farmers markets, especially the Saturday markets, include music, art, and fun activities for kids. Good Food Pittsburgh has The Ultimate Guide to Pittsburgh Farmers Markets list as well as other wonderful suggestions around quality food.
Considering starting your own edible garden? Check out Grow Pittsburgh. They are an excellent resource for backyard, community, and school gardens.
Shopping at a farmers market will flex your recipe muscles. Sometimes we can get in a rut eating the same thing because it’s easy. Fresh, local produce can inspire new recipes or remind you of an old favorite. Fill your farmers market bag with fresh fruits and vegetables, go home, and meal prep for the week!
Despite all of the rain that we have had in Pittsburgh, there’s still plenty of time to enjoy the fresh, local food that the area grows. Many markets are open rain or shine. So, grab your umbrella, raincoat, and reusable bag and flex those recipe muscles!
Corey Flynn NDTR, CDM, CFPP
Here is what they mean: Nutrition and Dietetics Technician, Registered; Certified Dietary Manager; and Certified Food Protection Professional. She is also an ACE certified personal trainer.
Corey has degrees in nutrition, photography, and journalism. She enjoys adventure triathlons and hiking. She is currently working on a master’s degree in public policy and management with a concentration in environment and sustainability at the University of Pittsburgh Graduate School of Public and International Affairs while working full time and caring for her husband, three children, three cats, a beagle, two geckos, and one goldfish