Nutritional value comes through the stem of the plant to the fruit or vegetable. Once harvested it’s as nutritious as it is going to get. Often fruits and vegetables are harvested before fully ripe and then allowed to ripen on a delivery truck. This can produce nutritionally depleted fruits and vegetables when they are usually known to be nutrition powerhouses! Therefore, the best produce to eat would be those closest to you, or locally grown. I would look into that before I ever worry about organic . It will also ensure that you are eating produce in season.
You can look into Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) as well. It is a “produce subscription” where you receive weekly or monthly farm products for a fee. Click on the link and enter your zip code to find one near you.
Since we are entering the fall season, what produce should you be looking for? Here is a list of seasonal produce:
Acorn Squash, Apples, Belgian Endive, Butternut Squash, Cauliflower, Celeriac, Figs, Garlic, Ginger, Grapes, Mushrooms, Parsnips, Pears, Pomegranate, Pumpkin, Quince, Sweet Potatoes and Swiss Chard.
What is your favorite fall fruit or vegetable? Mine is definitely APPLES!
Emily Fonnesbeck RD,CD