What is better about shopping for produce locally as opposed to in a chain? Everything!

First of all, local produce is more nutritious than shipped foods. Shipped fruits and vegetables are frequently picked before they ripen so that they can endure the long-distance ride. What this means to you and I is that we absorb less nutrients when consuming produce that isn’t local.

Buying produce locally also supports your local community, providing jobs and ultimately a thriving local economy which means better living for everyone around us.

And how about the oh-so-important fact that farm-to-table produce is delicious? Plus, not only are there numerous choices of fresh seasonal fruit and vegetables, but farm-to-table items include honey, baked goods, nuts, meats, cheeses and other dairy products.

Local food is also better for our environment. With shorter delivery requirements which limit shipping, we leave behind a much smaller carbon footprint.

In fact, schools are even incorporating farm-to-table produce into cafeteria menus in an effort to instill healthier eating habits in our children.

So, if you long for tantalizing treats such as succulent berries, peaches that drip with sugary sweet juices, nutrient-rich zucchini, peppers, onions and mushrooms fresh off your grill and buttery lettuce, avocados and cherry tomatoes bursting with flavor in your salads, buying your produce local is definitely the way to go!