The importance of the S.O.U.L. principal & why I shop this way.

I get it, we like what we like. I have fallen in the habit in the past of consuming the same foods over and over again. However, the importance of switching up the foods you eat is often overlooked. It is important to make sure you’re covering your basis in terms of micronutrients, but to also prevent yourself from developing food sensitivities. (Yes, you can become intolerant to foods you consume often).

One of the most important rules I live by is following the S.O.U.L purpose. SEASONAL - ORGANIC - UNALTERED - LOCAL. This will ensure you are receiving the most benefits from the food. Below, i’ve covered some of the most important reasons why you should be eating in-season produce.

Nutrient-content

Seasonal fruits and vegetables are more nutritious than their out of season counterparts. This is due to their ability to ripen naturally by the sun, rather than being harvested early in order to get on the grocery store shelves. This means a higher content of those important antioxidants that keep us healthy and feeling our best!

Taste

I don't know about you guys, but there is nothing better than some freshly picked in-season cherries, strawberries, or pretty much any fruit out there. Seasonal fruits and vegetables are fresher because they aren’t being transported long distances, taste better, and are often even more vibrant in color. Due to their ability to ripen naturally, they often are juicier and last longer as well.

Environment

When a crop is in seasons, it takes little effort from humans to grow. This means less pesticide use and fewer genetically modified crops. Purchasing locally grown food not only help maintain farmland but support your local farmers. Food grown, processed, and distributed locally also generates jobs and offers job security for those already in the field. .

Price

I know you all have seen berries during the winter, priced at like $6-7 a carton. When a fruit or vegetable is in-season, prices go down because there is an abundance of it.

Now I know from experience, it can seem daunting to keep what is seasonal and what is not, in mind. So, I made it easy for you and went ahead and listed below in-season fruits and vegetables for the months to come.

Spring:

Veggies: Asparagus, beets, broccoli, cabbage, cauliflower, garlic greens, greens, arugula, bok choy, chard, collards, dandelion, kale, mustard greens, lettuce, mushrooms, radishes, peas, rhubarb, spinach, and sprouts.

Fruit: Apples & strawberries

Summer:

Veggies: Beets, broccoli, cabbage, carrots, cauliflower, celery, cucumbers, eggplant, endive, fennel, garlic, green beans, lettuce, mushrooms, okra, onion, pepper, potato, radicchio, scallions, sprouts, summer squash, sweet corn, tomato

Fruits: Apricots, blackberries, cherries, currants, elderberries, gooseberries, melons, nectarines, peaches, plums, raspberries, plums, cherries, apricots

You may be curious as to where can you buy local, seasonal produce? Local farmers’ markets, or through Community Supported Agriculture programs, are a great start. You can always do a quick google search in your area to find what’s easily accessible to you!