Dietitian's Dish It’s Picnic Season! Farm Fresh & Local July 2019 Choosing local foods reduces the number of miles food travels between farm and table, minimizing the environmental burdens of fuel and transport. Eating with the seasons also reduces the environmental cost of storage. There are many ways to find out what is growing fresh in a field near you so you can add farm fresh foods to your next grilling get together! Here are a few. Check out the Seasonal Food Guide, at www.seasonalfoodguide.org.. Download the app for on-the-go access to their database and find produce that is in season in your state throughout the year The USDA offers a national farmer’s market directory. It provides directions, hours of operation, and types of locally grown products. You can learn more at https://www.ams.usda.gov/local-food-directories/farmersmarkets. MyPlate,MyState is an extension of MyPlate. Select your state and MyPlate provides a breakdown of locally produced foods organized by food group. This can help you build balanced meals with locally grown foods. https://www.choosemyplate.gov/myplate-mystate Planning a picnic or beach trip? Incorporate seasonal produce into your adventure by using fresh veggies instead of chips for dip. Fresh veggies and dips like hummus, guacamole, or salsa are easy grab-and-go finger foods. Fresh fruits such as peaches, cherries, watermelon, and blueberries are refreshing on a hot day. Farm Fresh & Local Picnic and barbecue season has finally arrived! Stash your snow gear; it’s time for toes in the sand, barbeques, and fun in the sun. It is prime season to capitalize on the best nutrition Mother Nature has to offer. Wondering what the benefits are of eating “farm fresh” and local? Local food may have more nutrients as the nutrients have had less time in storage to degrade. Researchers have found that season affects nutrient content more than other variables, such as whether produce has been grown using organic versus conventional methods. With fewer steps between farm and table, there are less opportunities for microbial contamination to occur during transport and storage (always follow food safety guidelines). Spending your food dollars close to home means that money is reinvested into local farms and businesses. By choosing local, you are helping the health of your community. Look for the OH SO GOOD sign in the café to easily find better-for-you foods!