We all know that winter is a time for cozy sweaters, hot drinks, and comforting meals. But when it comes to the fruits we eat, winter might not be the best season for everything. You might be tempted to grab a watermelon or some peaches, but unfortunately, they might not be the healthiest or most eco-friendly choices for this time of year. Let’s dive into why some fruits are better off avoided during the colder months.
Off-Season Fruits: Not the Best Choice for Your Health or the Planet
It’s no secret that the best fruits are the ones that are in season. In the colder months, we often find ourselves reaching for fruits that are grown out of season, sometimes in faraway places, like Morocco or even beyond. These fruits, picked before they fully ripen to withstand the long transport, lack the full nutritional punch they could have had if they were allowed to ripen naturally.
As Alexandra Murcier, a registered dietitian, points out, off-season fruits are often loaded with pesticides and chemicals used to preserve them during long trips. Plus, they lack key nutrients like vitamin C and antioxidants, which are crucial in boosting our immune systems during the winter. In fact, some winter fruits have half the amount of vitamin C compared to their summer counterparts. So, while they may look appealing, they aren’t really giving you the health benefits you’re seeking.
Let’s take a closer look at the fruits you should think twice about picking up this winter.
The 10 Fruits to Avoid in Winter
Here are the fruits you should probably avoid during the colder months. They’re typically out of season, poor in nutrients, and can leave a larger environmental footprint due to their transportation needs:
- Watermelon
- Peach
- Blackcurrant
- Apricot
- Blackberry
- Cherry
- Grapes
- Fig
- Gooseberry
- Tomato
These summer fruits, though available in winter, are not as flavorful or nutritious as their fresh, in-season versions. Their long journey from distant farms can contribute to a high carbon footprint, further harming the environment. What’s more, they don’t freeze well, meaning they lose texture and taste when frozen, which is a common way to preserve fruits outside of their season.
Exceptions to Consider
Now, before you start feeling too guilty about enjoying these fruits, there are a few exceptions. Three fruits—melon, mango, and raspberry—can actually handle freezing quite well without sacrificing their nutritional value. So, if you can’t resist these tropical treats, frozen versions might be your best option during winter.
The Best Fruits to Eat in Winter
While the fruits mentioned above might not be the best choices during the winter months, there are plenty of seasonal fruits that can help you stay healthy and energized during the colder days. These fruits are not only packed with vitamins and minerals that support your immune system but are often locally grown, reducing their environmental impact. Here are some winter-friendly options to enjoy:
- Kiwi
- Orange
- Banana
- Avocado
- Pineapple
- Lychee
- Passion fruit
- Chestnut
- Lemon
- Clementine
- Pomegranate
- Persimmon
- Mandarin
- Mango
- Pear
- Grapefruit
- Apple
These fruits are full of nutrients that can help keep you warm, boost your immune system, and ensure you’re getting a healthy dose of antioxidants to fend off winter colds. Citrus fruits like oranges and lemons are particularly rich in vitamin C, while kiwis and pomegranates are loaded with antioxidants.
Enjoying these seasonal picks can also have a positive effect on your carbon footprint, as they are more likely to be grown locally or regionally, reducing the environmental cost of transporting fruits over long distances.
Conclusion
While it might be tempting to indulge in out-of-season fruits during winter, it’s worth considering the health and environmental impacts before doing so. By opting for seasonal fruits that are naturally suited to colder months, you can not only enjoy better taste and nutritional benefits but also reduce your carbon footprint. So, next time you’re at the grocery store, think about how you can make healthier and more sustainable choices. Your body and the planet will thank you.
