Introducing a new nutrition and culinary program, Taste of Wellness, curated by Pleasant View’s dining services provider, Culinesse. Look out for new educational articles monthly!
Why Fresh & Local Foods Matter
Article written by Ally Vinciguerra, MS, RDN, CSG
Enjoying fresh, local fruits and vegetables during their peak seasons is not only delicious but may also offer valuable nutritional benefits.
Fruits and vegetables generally contain their highest levels of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants around the time they are harvested. Some nutrients can gradually decrease during transportation and storage, particularly when produce travels long distances before reaching the table. Locally sourced foods often have a shorter journey from the farm to our communities, allowing residents to enjoy produce that is fresh, flavorful, and rich in nutrients.
Shorter transportation times may also reduce the need for certain post-harvest treatments used to help produce ripen or remain fresh during extended shipping and storage. Local produce can often be harvested closer to peak ripeness, giving fruits and vegetables more time to grow and mature naturally. This may enhance their flavor, color, texture, and nutritional quality.
Seasonal produce can also provide nutrients that are especially enjoyable and beneficial at different times of the year. For example, summer berries provide vitamin C and antioxidants that help support healthy skin and protect the body’s cells. During the fall and winter, colorful squash, sweet potatoes, carrots, and leafy greens provide nutrients that support immune health and overall well-being.
What is in season?
- Spring: asparagus, peas, strawberries, spinach, chives, and parsley
- Summer: tomatoes, corn, zucchini, cucumbers, peaches, berries, basil, and mint
- Fall: apples, pears, pumpkins, squash, sweet potatoes, rosemary, and sage
- Winter: carrots, cabbage, beets, citrus fruits, thyme, and other root vegetables
Our dining teams understand how important it is to provide residents with the highest-quality food and ingredients within our control. To support this commitment, we partner with our primary food supplier, US Foods, to bring fresh and reliable products to our communities.
Through the Serve Local, Sourced by US Foods® program, US Foods identifies local suppliers that can consistently provide quality, locally produced foods in the quantities our restaurants need and at a competitive price. By partnering with these suppliers, US Foods helps bring fresh, regional ingredients directly to our doorsteps.
Our dining teams also continue to work with additional local and specialty vendors whenever possible. These partnerships help ensure that freshness, quality, and local sourcing remain a priority as we create enjoyable and nourishing dining experiences for our residents.
