ForkBytes

Note: this piece first appeared in the October 2008 issue of Clark Wellness ForkBytes.

As we move into colder months, finding good quality fresh food can be a challenge. The abundance of spring and summer is a distant memory, and the fall harvest will wind down soon. Sometimes, it can be hard to navigate the world of produce selection, especially when you don’t know what to look for.

I’ve shared some of my favorite tips and tricks for finding the freshest and best-quality food available below. Use these tips to help you locate and select the best and freshest food!

1. Know what’s in season. Seasonal foods are fresh, abundant, delicious, and less expensive. Even in snowy winter months, many fresh foods are available! Fresh produce items available in the D.C. area in October include apples, pumpkins, spinach, green beans, and peppers, among others.

2. Buy local. Locally grown food has traveled less distance from the farm to your plate and is always fresher. Farmers’ markets and roadside stands are the best places to find local food, and many markets operate year-round.

3. Inspect your veggies. Leafy green vegetables should be vibrantly colored and firm, not wilting. Squashes should have a hard shell and deep color. Root vegetables should be firm and hardy. Avoid discoloration and signs of breakdown in all vegetables.

4. Pick your fruits. Berries should be firm and free of mold. Apples, pears, and stone fruit should be unbruised.

5. Serve ASAP. Though many produce items do store well, in general, eat produce as soon as it’s ripe to enjoy full nutritional and energetic benefits!