How do I eat a balanced diet of local foods in the winter? That's a great ...

How do I eat a balanced diet of local foods in the winter? That’s a great question, especially with the type of weather we have in the North Country! There are a few different ways to make sure you are getting all the nutrients you need to stay healthy throughout the winter. You’re not the first person to crave strawberries in the winter time! If you would like to have local fruits and vegetables in your diet year round one option is to buy in bulk at a farmers’ market or a U-Pick stand during the summer months and freeze or can the produce. This includes onions, pumpkins, squash, tomatoes, and corn. Even leafy greens such as spinach, chard and kale can be preserved. Don’t have enough room in your freezer? Well your pantry is another great option! Most foods can be hot-water canned or processed in a pressure canner based on the food. Vegetables, fruits, meat, jams, and more can be safely and energy efficiently preserved! It is important to have sanitary supplies, correct equipment, and the right process when canning. Cornell Cooperative Extension offers classes for canning and freezing; call your local extension office to find out! Canning and freezing food used to be a staple for many families. Learning self-reliance skills and food preservation can help you keep a local/seasonal diet even through the winter time! By Kaitlyn Lawrence, Local Foods Educator, Cornell Cooperative Extension of Jefferson County January 14, 2017