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Tomatoes from Spain, grapes from Chile, blueberries from Mexico—if the produce you purchase is better traveled than you are, you may want to rethink your buying habits. Investing in local food not only supports area farms, but also provides you with the following advantages.

3 Ways Buying Local Food Benefits You

1. Enjoy Greater Flavor

When fruits and vegetables need to be shipped a long way, it takes days for them to appear on supermarket shelves. To keep a banana or apple from spoiling in transit, it must be harvested earlier, often before it’s fully ripe. You won’t face this issue with local food that comes straight from the farm to your table. The well-ripened produce you eat will hold more flavor, making it all the more enjoyable.

2. Get More Nutrients

local foodLocal crops are also healthier because they’re allowed to ripen and achieve maximum nutrient value. Being grown on a seasonal basis gives them an additional nutritious punch: one study on local, seasonal broccoli versus imported out-of-season broccoli showed that the latter had only half as much Vitamin C. Additionally, to keep food fresh while it‘s traveling in trucks, ships, and planes, it may be treated with additional preservatives. With local food, you are spared these additives.

3. Join a Community

Buying local allows you to both support and connect with people in your area. You’ll get to know the individuals growing your food at area farmer’s markets. You can ask questions about their products and get honest, knowledgeable answers. These human connections provide a far more rewarding experience than strolling the aisles of a big-name grocery store.

 

Kahuku Farms of Oahu, HI, doesn’t just sell fresh produce straight from their fields. They also invite locals and tourists to take part in their farm tours and see how the crops are grown. After you’ve gotten a firsthand look at the process, get a taste of the goods at their farm cafe. Known for fresh and flavorful cuisine, their dishes will convince you that local food is the way to go. Check out their menu online. To join a tour, call (808) 628-0639 today.

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