Ask the Sustainability Team: Seasonal Eating

What is seasonal eating, and how can I do it on campus?

The average piece of produce is estimated to travel about 1,500 miles from farm to fork. Seasonal food refers to produce purchased and eaten near the time and place it is harvested. Eating local, seasonal foods provides a more balanced and diverse diet, all while supporting local farmers! It’s also tastier because farmers can pick produce at peak ripeness, allowing for flavor in every bite.

Seasonal eating at Carolina Dining Services

Sourcing items responsibly is a priority for Carolina Dining Services, which is why we purchase from North Carolina farmers whenever possible. As you look forward to the fall, be sure to seek out seasonal produce such as apples, sweet potatoes, and peppers. Our Local Chalkboards outside each dining hall will tell you what ingredients to look out for on a given week, and you can also attend our Farm Stand events to purchase locally grown, seasonal produce.

Outside of the dining halls, there are other ways to eat seasonally:

  1. Pick produce from the many gardens around campus run by Edible Campus
  2. Attend the Carrboro or Chapel Hill Farmer’s Market
  3. Apples, Persimmons, Cabbage, Tomatoes, Peppers, Pumpkins, and Squash are all in season this fall!