Whether it’s fruit, vegetables, or a combination of both, fresh produce is crucial to a healthy diet. Yet if you aren’t familiar with picking the best pieces when shopping at a grocery store, it’s easy to get confused. Between understanding how to tell if the item is ripe, the difference between organic and not, and the benefit of picking produce that is in season, there’s a lot to grasp, but this guide will help you find the best options for you and your family next time you go grocery shopping.

How to Shop for Produce at the Grocery Store

1. Test for Ripeness

There are a few basic tests you should perform while at the supermarket to ensure you’re picking the best produce. First, do the eye test. If you find produce that is smaller than the rest in the batch, it may have been harvested too early and isn’t as ripe. On the other hand, produce that is much bigger could be less flavorful or have a tougher texture.

When shopping for berries or melons, do the sniff test. Avoid fruits that smell too sweet, as they may be overripe. Also, if there’s a musty odor on any vegetables, it’s best to leave them as they may have been sitting out too long. You can also squeeze produce to feel for a sturdy texture in veggies but look for a little give in the fruits.

2. Determine What Organic Produce to Buy

Organic produce is widely touted as being the best option, but that doesn’t mean you have to buy every organic option in the grocery store.

You can save money and still avoid ingesting harmful herbicides and pesticides by buying conventional produce that has to be peeled, as only the outer layer is exposed to these substances. However, you should buy organic leafy greens because they are often heavily sprayed with pesticides to counteract pests, and their extra surface area can allow toxins to stick.

3. Buy Seasonal Produce

Different produce will be in season throughout the year, and there are numerous benefits to choosing them during that season. These fruits and veggies will provide a richer flavor because each product can be picked when it’s perfectly ripened. Plus, since they are more readily available, produce that is in season is typically less expensive than buying options that aren’t.

 

When you’re looking for quality produce, stop by Schmitz’s Economart in Spooner, WI. For more than 80 years, they’ve been the area’s one-stop-shop for all grocery needs, be it simple groceries, deli products, or medicine from the pharmacy. Learn about everything they offer by calling (715) 635-2836 or visit them online to see a list of their services.