This year’s theme is, Nutrition from the Ground Up. Although the ground continues to be covered in a white blanket, soon we hope to start seeing the first signs of spring. March brings us the start of spring and National Nutrition Month. This year the focus is “Nutrition from the Ground Up”. As we look to spring, it is the perfect time to consider fresh sources of fruits and vegetables.
Are there ways you could grow your own fruits and vegetables where you live? Gardens come in all different shapes, sizes, and even containers. An assortment of herbs (three of my favorites are basil, oregano, and thyme) in a container on your patio is a perfect way to start.
Don’t have a green thumb? Let the professionals help. Most communities offer farmer’s markets and community supported agriculture (CSA). If you’ve never heard of CSA’s before, according to Local Harvest it is described as “a popular way for consumers to buy local, seasonal food directly from a farmer. Here are the basics: a farmer offers a certain number of “shares” to the public. Typically the share consists of a box of vegetables, but other farm products may be included. Interested consumers purchase a share (aka a “membership” or a “subscription”) and in return receive a box, bag, or basket of seasonal produce each week throughout the farming season.” Local Harvest is a great resource for finding farmer’s markets and CSA’s, as well as local farms. Check them out at www.localharvest.org. For local resources also check out Local Matters, Local Ohio Foods at www.local-matters.org.
Now, you have some great resources for including those fruits and vegetables in your diet. If you wonder how to store them, keep reading. The majority of fruits and vegetables should be stored in cold storage at a temperature of 32° – 40°F. Onions, Okra, Peppers, Potatoes, Ripe Tomatoes, and Watermelon should all be stored at a cool temperature (45°- 50°F). And finally, Pumpkins, Hard Peaches, Mature Green Tomatoes and Winter Squash should be kept at a warm temperature (55°- 60°F). These are only suggested storage temperatures. Potatoes should also be protected from light. For more information about storage and nutrition go to: www.aboutproduce.com.
You still have a few weeks to plan your strategy for incorporating more fruits and vegetables into your nutrition plan. Be sure to include the whole family in the planning and/or visits to the farmer’s markets!
