Local and seasonal food is tastier, cheaper, and less energy intensive.

Because produce grown outside of your region requires extensive transportation, resulting in additional greenhouse gas emissions, out of season foods are harvested early to ensure arrival to its destination before spoiling.

Locally grown produce, on the other hand, requires less travel – meaning it’s sold at peak harvest. This reduces not only greenhouse gas production, but also cost.

Check out the USDA Local Food Directory to find a farmers market in your area, while using this food guide to identify in-season produce.