What is one advantage of buying local seasonal fruits and vegetables?

Buying local seasonal fruits and vegetables is advantageous primarily because they often travel shorter distances from farm to table, which helps preserve their nutrient content. When produce is harvested at peak ripeness and consumed shortly thereafter, it retains more vitamins and minerals compared to items that have been transported over long distances. The longer produce sits before consumption, especially if it has been transported from far away, the more nutrients can degrade due to exposure to light, air, and temperature fluctuations.

This practice also supports local economies and sustainable farming practices, as purchasing local items reduces the carbon footprint associated with transporting food over long distances. Furthermore, seasonal produce is typically fresher and tastier, as it is picked when it is in season and at its best.

While there might be concerns regarding genetic modification, the assertion that local produce is less likely to be genetically modified isn't universally true; genetic modification can occur in local farms as well. Price variability is a hallmark of agricultural commodities that can fluctuate with supply and demand, so items are not always consistent in price throughout the year. Lastly, the caloric content of vegetables and fruits does not generally increase simply due to their local or seasonal nature; this is more dependent on type and variety rather than the source of the product.