Is eating according to the season cheaper? –LifeSavvy

You’ve probably heard people talk about eating seasonally for the health benefits, but when it comes to your grocery budget, can the practice actually pay off? It turns out that eating according to the season might be a good idea.

When you eat in season, you’re more likely to save money at the grocery store.

How exactly does your job work? Well, it’s all about supply. When fruits and vegetables are in season, there is (typically) a plentiful supply. As a result, prices are lower. When you buy products out of season, it is very likely that you have had to import them from other countries. As a result, it is more expensive to enter stores and that cost is then passed on to the consumer.

So if you’re looking to save money, switching to seasonal produce alone might help lower your grocery bill, but the benefits aren’t limited to your wallet. Some studies have shown that seasonal produce may have more nutrients and vitamins, and avoid the use of ripening agents to speed up the growing process.

Also, when products must be created in bulk to meet demand, fruit or vegetables can suffer as the focus becomes quantity rather than quality. Typically, these items are selectively bred, and during that process, uniform maturation and continued shelf life are valued above other factors that can lead to a mediocre product.

If, like most people, you’re looking to save at the grocery store, shopping for seasonal items might be a good place to start.