With food assistance programs facing funding cuts and grocery prices continuing to rise, many families are looking for ways to stretch meals. Using seasonal produce is a great way to put more on your plate without having less in your wallet. Knowing how to use seasonal fruits and vegetables can even help you get the most out of distribution boxes from your local food bank.
Produce Can Stretch Your Budget
Seasonal produce is often cheaper than other options at the store. Locally grown options tend to have similar price deductions. Seasonal and local produce are less expensive due to the increased quantity available and the reduced distance to stores and local markets. These factors mean saving up to 50% on produce items by knowing when to buy them. When every penny counts, getting a good deal on essential grocery items can make a big difference. Being aware of what is in season throughout the year can help you stretch your budget further while adding essential nutrients to your meals. Utilizing resources like the USDA’s Seasonal Produce Guide makes planning meals with fresh ingredients easier. You can also check a produce calendar for your state to see what is available locally.
Produce Can Stretch Your Recipes
In addition to saving money on groceries, seasonal produce can help you stretch meals. Using produce wisely can help you add extra volume to meals. Fresh fruits and vegetables can often be paired with recipes you are already familiar with. For example, adding seasonal vegetables to mac and cheese or soup can increase the number of portions your recipe yields with very little effort. More portions might also mean you will have leftovers for the next day. Seasonal produce can also be incorporated as sides to your main meal or easy, low-cost snacks. No matter the time of year, there are a variety of fresh options to choose from.
Produce Can Stretch Food Bank Donations
Some food banks are able to accept seasonal produce donations from farmers or food rescue programs. These fresh ingredients are important additions to food boxes that provide essential nutrients and increase the impact of many common ingredients found at food banks. Knowing how to use seasonal produce provided by a food bank can help food box recipients keep produce fresh and easily include it in their meal planning. If you find yourself with fresh produce and are unsure how or when to use it, there are several ways to preserve these items, such as freezing, canning, pickling, or drying them. If those options seem intimidating, there are many simple baking recipes or casserole recipes you can incorporate these ingredients into that freeze well.
Fresh produce can be used in a variety of ways to stretch meals, grocery budgets, and even food bank donations. Seasonal fruits and vegetables can often be added to your favorite recipes and easy meals in addition to the most common ingredients found at food banks. With some meal planning, seasonal produce can make a big difference no matter what time of year you use it.
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The One Initiative unites C.R. England and England Logistics in the fight to end childhood hunger. Learn more about the work of the One Initiative at oneagainstchildhoodhunger.com.
