Seasonal Eating Health Tip Tuesday Roundup

As we savour the sunny days of summer, there’s no better time to explore the joys of seasonal eating. Not only does it offer a delectable array of fresh produce, but it also brings myriad benefits to our health and the environment. By aligning our meals with nature’s calendar, we can indulge in the peak flavours and nutrients of the season while supporting local farmers and reducing our carbon footprint. Whether you’re a seasoned farmers’ market shopper or new to the world of seasonal produce, embracing these natural rhythms can transform your culinary experience and enhance your well-being.

Benefits of Seasonal Eating

Embracing seasonal eating in Ontario this summer brings a bounty of fresh, vibrant produce that not only delights our taste buds but also supports local agriculture. Summer in Ontario offers juicy peaches and strawberries, crisp cucumbers, and sweet corn, all bursting with flavour and nutrients at their peak. Eating seasonally means enjoying fruits and vegetables at their freshest, which enhances their taste and maximizes their health benefits. Plus, buying local supports nearby farmers and reduces your carbon footprint, making your meals both delicious and eco-friendly. These peak-season fruits and vegetables are richer in vitamins, antioxidants, and minerals, contributing to better overall health and well-being so that you can always feel your best!

Seasonal Eating in Ontario in July

In July, Ontario’s farmers’ markets transform into vibrant showcases of seasonal bounty, brimming with delicious and nutritious options. There is so much produce in season right now, but here are a few of my favourites: 

• Strawberries are in their prime, offering a sweet burst of antioxidants like vitamin C, which supports your immune system and enhances skin health. There are so many ways you can enjoy strawberries, like my Dairy-Free Strawberry Shortcake!
• Cucumbers are another refreshing treat, packed with hydration and vitamin K, which is essential for maintaining strong bones. They also contain antioxidants that help reduce inflammation and support overall skin health. Plus, their high water content helps keep you feeling refreshed and energized during those hot summer days.
• Sweet corn makes a flavorful addition to any meal, rich in fibre and B vitamins that boost digestive health and energy levels. Its natural sweetness adds a delightful burst of flavour to salads, grills, and salsas, making healthy eating a pleasure. Plus, the antioxidants found in sweet corn help combat oxidative stress, supporting overall wellness and vitality.
• Lastly, juicy peaches provide a wealth of vitamins A and C, promoting eye health and bolstering your immune defences. These seasonal treasures not only delight your palate but also contribute valuable nutrients to keep you feeling vibrant and healthy!

Farmer’s Market Tips and Tricks to Make Seasonal Eating a Breeze

Maximize your farmer’s market experience with these savvy tips! My local farmers market is small but mighty and I never miss a Wednesday! Over the years I’ve learned some hacks to make every visit fun for me and my kids, but also stress-free with a successful produce haul. 

• Carry cash just in case some vendors don’t accept cards, and remember that shopping locally supports your community and helps farmers thrive.
• Arrive early to snag the freshest produce and avoid the crowds. 
• Bring your own reusable bags and a cooler for perishables to cut down on waste. 
• Engage with the farmers—ask about their growing methods, and what’s in season, and get recipe suggestions. They can help you get familiar with what’s in season to get the most nutritious and flavorful produce.
• Plan your shopping list but stay open to new finds, as seasonal produce can inspire fresh and exciting meals. 
• Take advantage of samples to ensure you’re picking the best items and discover new favourites. 
• If you find a great deal, buying in bulk can save you money and allow you to preserve items for later.

How to Eat Seasonally All Year Round

Eating in season doesn’t have to be limited to just a few months of the year. With these conservation techniques, you can enjoy the benefits of fresh, local produce year-round:

Canning:

• How It Works: Canning preserves food by sealing it in airtight containers and heating it to destroy microorganisms.
• What to Can: Tomatoes, peaches, pickles, and jams are perfect for canning.
• Benefits: Extends shelf life, retains nutritional value, and provides a delicious way to enjoy summer flavours in the middle of winter.

Freezing:

• How It Works: Freezing slows down enzyme activity and preserves food by keeping it at low temperatures.
• What to Freeze: Berries, leafy greens, beans, and corn freeze well.
• Benefits: Easy and quick, retains most of the nutritional value, and allows for convenient, out-of-season produce.

Drying & Dehydrating:

• How It Works: Drying removes moisture from food, which inhibits the growth of bacteria and mold.
• What to Dry: Herbs, apples, tomatoes, and mushrooms are great for drying.
• Benefits: Lightweight, shelf-stable, and concentrated flavours. Perfect for snacks and seasoning.

Fermenting:

• How It Works: Fermentation uses natural bacteria to convert sugars into acids, preserving food and adding beneficial probiotics.
• What to Ferment: Cabbage (sauerkraut), cucumbers (pickles), and carrots.
• Benefits: Improves digestion, boosts the immune system, and preserves food for months.

Root Cellaring:

• How It Works: Root cellaring stores food in a cool, dark, and humid environment to prolong its freshness.
• What to Store: Potatoes, carrots, beets, and apples.
• Benefits: Natural preservation method, no energy required, and keeps produce fresh for months.

By using these methods, you can enjoy the taste and nutritional benefits of seasonal produce all year long. Stock up on your favourite fruits and veggies this summer and preserve them to enjoy in the off-season.

How Seasonal Choices Impact the Planet

Choosing seasonal produce is like giving a high-five to the planet! When you opt for fruits and vegetables that are in season, you’re supporting local agriculture and reducing the need for long-distance transportation. This means fewer greenhouse gas emissions from trucks and airplanes, which helps keep our air cleaner and our planet cooler; shipping out-of-season produce from faraway places often involves energy-intensive processes, which can contribute significantly to carbon footprints. By eating seasonally, you’re helping to cut down on these emissions and making a positive impact on climate change.

But the benefits don’t stop there! Seasonal farming practices typically use fewer artificial inputs like pesticides and fertilizers, as crops grown in their natural season often thrive with less intervention. This promotes healthier soil and biodiversity, which are crucial for maintaining ecosystems and ensuring future food security. Plus, when you buy from local farmers, you’re supporting sustainable practices that preserve open spaces and strengthen local economies. So, next time you reach for that juicy summer peach or vibrant autumn squash, know that you’re making a delicious choice that’s also kind to the Earth!

Incorporating seasonal eating into your lifestyle not only elevates your meals with peak flavours and nutrition but also fosters a stronger connection to your community and the environment. By choosing to eat what’s in season, you support local farmers, reduce your ecological footprint, and enjoy the freshest, most nutritious produce available. As you explore the bountiful offerings of summer in Ontario, remember that each choice you make contributes to a healthier you and a healthier planet. So, visit your local farmers’ market, savour the season’s best, and celebrate the simple, sustainable joys of seasonal eating.