Eating Locally Means Eating Seasonally
When it comes to eating locally, one of the first things to consider is seasonality – knowing when different types of fruits and vegetables are harvested where you live.
Not only does changing your eating habits to focus on seasonal foods help you support local
businesses, but plump, summer tomatoes in July found at your farmers market will always taste
better than the pale, dry ones you can find at the grocery store in February. Focusing on eating
foods while they are in season allows you to make the most of the full nutrient-rich punch of
fresh local foods.
Ready to start supporting your local economy, your local farmers, and your health?
Tips for Seasonal Eating
Use Our Michigan Produce Seasonality Guide
Our Seasonal Eating Chart helps you understand when produce is available in Michigan. Plan your weekly meals around what’s available at your farmers market or in the local produce section of your grocer. Local produce is packed with nutrients and makes a great basis for healthy meals. Plus, it tastes better!
Nuestra guía de temporada está disponible en Español también. Verlo aquí.
Find Great Seasonal Eating Recipes
Check out our tried and true recipes in our blog for ideas on how to use local produce. At your farmers market, farmers are often happy to share their recipes with you. Local grocers often have recipes available in the produce aisle too!
Join a CSA
Consider joining a Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) Farm. Each week, you’ll receive a weekly box of just-picked produce, recipe ideas, and storage tips.
Preserve Local Food for Winter
Save the flavors of summer by canning, freezing, drying, and properly storing so you can enjoy it all winter long. Read our how-to guide here for ideas. It’s an economic way to eat well year round.
Download our seasonal produce storage guide, an easy reference sheet on storing your favorite produce.
Make the Most of the Colder Months
During the winter months, enjoy what you’ve preserved. Supplement soups, applesauce, fruits, veggies, and meats with local breads, hoop house salad greens, eggs, milk, cheese and storage crops like squash, carrots, beets and onions.
Want to Dive Deeper into Local Seasonal Eating?
We offer a variety of resources to support anyone looking to add more local food to their diet. Check out our Find Food and Farms database to find local producers in your community, pick up our Local Food Guide for recipes, stories, local business listings and more, or join our Local Food Club!