Why Freshness Matters - Short 1/23/2026

The science behind why local produce is more nutritious

Why does freshness matter? It isn't just about flavor.

What Happens After Harvest

The moment a plant is harvested, it continues to breathe through a process called respiration. This breaks down stored organic materials like carbohydrates, proteins, and fats — leading to a loss of texture, flavor, and nutrients.

Source: University of Missouri via Livestrong – How Do Fruits and Vegetables Lose Their Nutrients After Picking?

How Fast Do Nutrients Decline?

Vegetables can lose 15 to 55 percent of their vitamin C within a week of harvest. Some spinach can lose up to 90 percent of its vitamin C within the first 24 hours.

Source: Chicago Tribune – Most Produce Loses 30 Percent of Nutrients Three Days After Harvest

Vitamin C losses in vegetables stored at refrigerator temperature (39°F) for 7 days range from 15% for green peas to 77% for green beans.

Source: UC Davis – Maximizing the Nutritional Value of Fruits and Vegetables

Why Local Matters

Food that has been picked and transported over long distances is less nutritious than food grown locally because of the extended time from farm to table.

Source: Michigan State University via Livestrong – How Do Fruits and Vegetables Lose Their Nutrients After Picking?

The Bottom Line

Fresh produce doesn't just taste better — it delivers more of the vitamins and nutrients your body needs. That's why we harvest same-day and deliver within miles, not states.