In our society, there always seems to be some kind of food trend. Whether it’s a fad carbohydrate-free diet or a surge in attempting a dairy-free lifestyle, there’s no limit to what consumers will try in order to engage in a healthier lifestyle. But putting all fads aside, one fact remains true: eating fresh and locally prepared is best. Processed foods are more convenient, but they often lack the nutrients found in fresh ingredients. Additionally, these foods require chemical preservatives for longer shelf-life. If you’re currently looking for better ways to eat healthy, visit your local farmers’ market at www.orangencfarmersmarket.org to discover your options.

Chemicals

The majority of foods on the market, not labeled organic, have been sprayed with pesticides to keep away pests while they grow. In addition, many of these seeds have been genetically modified to survive the spray from these products. The result of which is modified fruits and or vegetables or fresh produce covered in pesticides; the trace of which can still be found after washing. Organic farmers must use natural pesticides and organic seeds, not genetically-modified. The result of which is a safer, healthier product.

Nutrients

Organic farmers are held to higher standard than corporate farmers. The soil must be managed in such a way that leaves abundant minerals, enzymes and vitamins in the earth. As a result, organic vegetables grown in nutrient rich soil have a higher concentrate of vitamins than non-organic counterparts.

Taste

Local food is richer in taste than those from other parts of the country or world. The reason is that the produce from afar is picked at a very young stage in order to ensure it remains fresh upon arrival. If the food is still unripe, they spray chemicals on the produce to give the appearance of fresh fruit. Instead, local farmers pick produce at the peak time, providing consumers with the freshest possible food.