Seasonal Eating is not at all a new concept, it is the way we have been eating since the beginning of time. It is the way most still eat all over the world. And yet, in our modern American society seasonal eating is seen as a luxury. Since the birth of the supermarket our natural ways of eating have been distorted. Now, we can eat watermelon in the middle of February and not even think twice about it. Even though this has beautiful advantages, it has taken a toll on our perspective and has put us out of sync with our environment.
I should preface this with a quick reminder that I am not in any way a medical professional. What I am however, is a classically trained chef who is passionate about social norms and standards around eating.
So what is seasonal eating?
Seasonal Eating- relishing what is naturally available to us according to the current harvest season.
Every season is a harvest for something. For example, May kicks off the spring harvest season with asparagus. Beets can be harvested from as early as May through September, and of course our hard squashes are available through December.
Knowing this information can help you when purchasing your groceries through out the year.
How can I tell what is in season?
Typically grocery stores will place the in season produce in the front of store. A second way to tell, is that these produce items are also the most inexpensive and typically on sale. In season produce takes a lot less resources to both cultivate and harvest so they less expensive.
To aide you further check out the Massachusetts crop harvest guide, it gives you a pretty detailed calendar of what to expect and when!
Are there any benefits to seasonal eating?
Yes! One of biggest reason we change our menu monthly here at Meals by Mayari, is because of the number one benefit of seasonal eating, nutrient dense food!
Produce harvested and eaten (or frozen) during its peak literally contains more nutrients.
Pumpkins picked in October contain
- Fiber
- Beta-carotene
- Protein
- Magnesium
- Potassium
all the nutrients needed to boost your immunity and improve skin and eye health.
When we zoom out and think about this in terms of timing, we can see how mother nature is preparing our bodies for harsh New England winter with end of autumn harvest produce.
How can I learn more?
If you would like to learn more about seasonal eating and how it can benefit you contact us today and chat with Chef Mayari on creating a prepared meal plan that works for you. It our passion to help people attune their bodies to the environment!