Explore the flavors of spring
Discover the vibrant flavors and nutritional benefits of seasonal eating in Florida's springtime, where fresh produce thrives and brings a burst of health and flavor to your plate.
Local and seasonal eating provides an array of benefits for individuals and the environment alike. At its core, it champions fresher and more flavorful produce, harvested at peak ripeness. Sourcing produce locally bolsters local farmers and economies. This keeps money circulating within communities and reduces the carbon footprint associated with long-distance food transportation. Embracing seasonal eating encourages dietary variety, as different crops cycle in and out of availability throughout the year, resulting in a more diverse and nutritionally balanced diet. Seasonal eating also nurtures a deeper connection to the land and the natural rhythms of agriculture. Ultimately, by diminishing reliance on imported and out-of-season foods, local and seasonal eating plays a vital role in sustainability efforts and the preservation of biodiversity.
Springtime Produce Grown in Florida:
Sweet Corn
Cucumber
Tomato
Watermelon
Beans
Basil
Cantaloupe
Blueberries
Potato
Resources to utilize all this fresh, seasonal produce
Gainesville Farmers Markets
A number of farmers markets set up in Gainesville throughout the week, with varying locations and times. Check out the nearest one to you this week!Â
Jacksonville Farmers Markets
Not in Gainesville? No worries! There are plenty of Farmers markets setting up shop in Jacksonville every week, too.
Look for the Fresh from Florida Sticker
This label marks produce in the store that was grown right here in our beautiful state. Not only will purchasing these products support Florida farmers, it’ll also stay fresh longer!
Optimize Produce Storage
Not at produce should be stored the same! Follow the link to learn how to store every type of produce you can think of!
Try out a New Recipe
Unsure about how to use all the fresh produce you picked up at the farmers market? Check out the Fresh from Florida recipe page to find your new go-to dinner.
– Natalie Lezcano, GatorCare Wellness Coordinator
Want more?
Check out our previous edition of Food for Thought!
While diet is a key aspect to overall health, there is much more that goes into the pursuit of overall physical wellness. Learn about self-massage techniques you could start using today with our previous edition of Food for Thought!
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In the world of nutrition and health, fats have often been unfairly villainized, leading many to fear their inclusion in their diets. Learn how to re-incorporate fats into your diet with our previous edition of Food for Thought!