WHY BUY LOCAL PRODUCE?

Lifeshape Clinic dietitian Nicola Moore explains why buying local fruit and veg is better for your family, and your budget.

Buying fruits and vegetables when they’re in-season is an easy way to eat healthier on a budget.

Local, seasonal produce is not only cheaper, it will also be at its peak flavour.

“Fruit that is out of season is often imported from other countries and has travelled a long way to get to your local supermarket,” says Nicola.

“It is also often picked when it’s unripe so it travels better to its destination. If you need to use out of season produce in a recipe, try frozen or canned (in natural juice) varieties.”

To save money, buy bulk amounts of in-season varieties and freeze them yourself.

“Fruits like banana, mango, pineapple and berries freeze well and can be used in smoothies for a quick, healthy breakfast,” explains Nicola.

Bulking out winter recipes with cheaper vegetables is also great on the hip pocket.

“Try adding carrot, broccoli, cauliflower, parsnip and zucchini to make your stews or curries more hearty,” says Nicola.

If you’re not sure what to look for when choosing varieties, get friendly with your local green grocer as they will be more than happy to give advice. “Try something new,” encourages Nicola. “Different fruits and vegetables give us different benefits. For example, a lot of winter produce has immune boosting effects to help us fight off colds. Whereas summer foods are juicy and nutrient boosting.”

It’s common to find things we love and stick to them. However, local, seasonal eating can get you out of a routine.

“Just because you haven’t had it before, doesn’t mean it isn’t delicious,” says Nicola.

“Many local grocers provide recipe cards instore, or check out our website for recipes if you get stuck.”

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