Fresh Food: Why It Matters and How to Find It
Fresh food is an essential component of a healthy diet, and it is critical to ensure that the food we consume is as fresh as possible to maximize its nutritional value. Despite the wide variety of food options available today, it can be challenging to discern which products are the freshest and most nutritious. James Breuhl, Vice President of Fresh at Rouses Supermarkets in Thibodaux, Louisiana, is a seasoned expert in the field of fresh food, and he has some valuable insights to share about how to find and enjoy fresh food.
James Breuhl Thibodaux Louisiana stresses the significance of quality and seasonality when it comes to fresh food. Choosing in-season, locally grown produce is Breuhl’s recommendation because it’s more likely to be fresh and tasty than produce that has traveled long distances. Additionally, he advises shoppers to examine the quality of the produce carefully, paying attention to factors such as texture, color, and aroma.
A trustworthy source is crucial when it comes to purchasing fresh food, according to Breuhl. When choosing a grocery store, he recommends seeking out those with a reputation for stocking high-quality, fresh food and working with local growers and suppliers. Breuhl also notes the importance of food safety measures, such as proper temperature storage for meat and dairy products and thoroughly washing produce before eating.
To keep meals fresh and varied, Breuhl suggests trying out different types of produce. To add flavor without excessive sodium or unhealthy additives, he suggests using fresh herbs and spices in meals. And for those with limited time, Breuhl recommends utilizing pre-cut produce or prepared salads to make meal preparation easier while still maintaining freshness and nutrition. Breuhl also emphasizes the importance of proper storage and handling of fresh food. For produce, he suggests keeping it in its original packaging or a reusable produce bag in the refrigerator to keep it fresh.
When it comes to seafood, Breuhl recommends purchasing it from a reputable source and checking for freshness by looking for clear eyes, bright colors, and a fresh, salty smell. Seafood should also be stored at the correct temperature, and any leftovers should be consumed within two days to maintain freshness and avoid foodborne illness.
One of the main advantages of fresh food is its nutritional value. Vitamins and minerals in fruits and vegetables decrease over time, and processing can exacerbate the decrease. In contrast, fresh food retains its nutritional value and can offer a variety of health benefits. Research has shown that consuming a diet high in fresh fruits and vegetables can lower the risk of heart disease, stroke, and several types of cancer.
In addition to its health benefits, fresh food also tastes better than processed alternatives. Fresh food is often characterized as having a brighter, more vibrant, and more intricate flavor profile compared to canned or frozen options. This is because fresh food is typically harvested when it is at its best stage of ripeness, while processed food may have been picked many weeks or months earlier and kept in storage for a long time.
To summarize, fresh food is a crucial aspect of maintaining a healthy diet, and it’s essential to prioritize freshness to obtain the maximum amount of nutrition possible. Choosing high-quality, locally grown, in-season produce, purchasing from trusted sources, and correctly storing and handling food can offer many benefits, including improved health, enhanced flavor, and a wider range of meal possibilities.