5 Reasons to Eat Locally-Grown Food

We talk a lot about how important it is to buy and eat Michigan-grown and raised fruits and veggies, but how does buying locally-grown food benefit our communities? Why is eating locally-grown food better for our families? And…what does “locally-grown food” even mean?

In Michigan, “locally-grown” food means it’s grown or processed in our state. Locally-grown food isn’t transported across the country or shipped from overseas — it’s some of the freshest fruits and veggies that are often grown just down the road!

Now that we have an idea of what locally grown fruits and veggies means, here are five reasons to buy and eat them: 

1. Locally grown food can taste better! Fruits and veggies that travel long distances are harvested early, so they don’t get too ripe on their journey. Since locally grown food isn’t making a long trip, it’s picked at PEAK ripeness for maximum flavor.
2. Besides being extra tasty, locally grown food may be more nutritious. Fresh, local fruits and veggies hang on to all their nutrients because they’re making a shorter trip from farm to fork. 
3. Buying locally grown food encourages us to eat seasonally. (Pro tip: Freeze in-season veggies to enjoy them all year long.) 
4. Local food  = more variety! Local producers can often offer a wider variety of fruits and veggies which helps us experiment with new healthy eating options.
5. Buying local food supports the local economy and keeps our money close to home. That money not only supports our local farmers, it’s also more likely to be reinvested in businesses and services in our communities.

Keep an eye out for Michigan-grown and -raised fruits and veggies the next time you Double Up at a participating store or market.

Find a location near you!