One of the best things about living in Florida is the sunshine. The temperate winter weather isn’t just perfect for enjoying the outdoors, sans snow, or breezing through a theme park. We have a long growing season and can enjoy fresh local produce year round.
This post was sponsored by Fresh From Florida as part of an Influencer Activation for Influence Central, however all opinions expressed are my own.
But even if you don’t live in a warm state, there are still benefits to buying local produce.
3 Reasons To Buy Your Food Fresh and Local
Save money
Shorter transport time means lower costs for the farmer, distributors, and the consumers. We are big supporters of fresh, colorful fruits and vegetables. I use fresh fruit in many of my easy popsicle recipes, in my low carb desserts, and in the kids’ snacks and lunches.
During the winter months, grocery stores import produce from other countries. The travel time means higher prices. By buying fruits and vegetables that are grown in Florida, I am saving money.
Support local economy
Another reason I tend to look for produce that is grown in my area is to support the local economy. When you buy from a local farmer, you make it possible for them to put money back into other local business. I have friends and family members who are local small business owners. A vibrant economy helps our community as a whole.
By buying Fresh from Florida I not only save money, I also help our community thrive.
Luckily for me, the Florida Department of Agriculture has made it easier to identify local produce and seafood with a new labeling initiative. You can find the Fresh from Florida logo on the packaging of locally grown produce.
Freshness matters
I rarely buy canned fruits or vegetables. (I buy canned food for my hurricane kit.) Fresh simply tastes better!
If my Strawberry Cheesecake Smoothie Recipe, Immune Boosting Snack Kits, or Strawberry Banana Pops recipes didn’t give you a clue, we eat a lot of strawberries around here. And that’s an understatement. Pea has strawberries in her lunch every single day.
I put them in my smoothies or mix them with plain greek yogurt.
I dehydrate them for easy portable snacking in the summer.
Buying fresh food from Florida helps keep our health conscious lifestyle affordable. If you live in Florida, keep an eye out for the Fresh from Florida labels. If you live in other states, look for produce marked as coming from your state. In the long run, eating food free from preservatives and in season will save you money at the grocery store and help your family stay healthy!
More resources:
Fresh from Florida Recipes
How to save money on healthy food
5 Healthy Eating Habits to Start the New Year Right
How to add more nutrients to your family’s diet
In Georgia, we have access to several farms and harvesting areas. I need to find a place to where our son can pick strawberries and blueberries.
Our kids love going to pick them. We grow a couple in pots too. My daughter loves taking care of her strawberries.