Did you know that April is the leanest month of the year for farmers?

Farmers call the period from March to May the “Hungry Gap”, when winter and stored crops become scarce and the first summer produce is not yet ready because the seedlings cannot be harvested. This is a time in some countries, including Germany, when there is very little fresh fruit and vegetables available.

Many of us are unaware of the “hungry gap” because the supermarket shelves are full of fresh spring produce, but if you look closely at the label, most of it will be imported from far away places. Depending on the weather, May, and sometimes June, is really the first time the new spring crops start to appear.

« Getting to grips with seasonal eating means getting into the rhythm of the year »

At this time of year, shopping and eating fresh produce is a challenge. You can approach greengrocers who will tell you what’s in season and where they source it.

Collectives, companies like Benoo, also offer fresh seasonal products from small producers. The box system allows you to discover new vegetables/ingredients without having to decide what to buy. Fresh seasonal produce you might find includes radishes, rhubarb, wild garlic, carrots, beetroot, cabbage, asparagus, spinach.

Sources :

https://sustainablefoodtrust.org
https://wickedleeks.riverford.co.uk/
https://www.independent.ie/