2 weeks Ago By [email protected] (Jane Corscadden)
Food on the shelves at Footprints Women's Centre in Poleglass (Image: Justin Kernoghan/Belfast Live) The Consumer Council has issued advice on how to save money on food costs in Northern Ireland. One way to reduce on food costs is by eating fruit and vegetables that are in season, as seasonal produce is often cheaper to grow and transport and their abundance can mean that costs come down. By picking seasonal foods, not only will you pay less but you'll also support local farmers while reducing the environmental impact of transporting out-of-season foods from around the world.
Read more: Belfast councillor concerned as food bank demand spikes over half-term Read more: NI Child Poverty criticised for not putting "children and families at its heart" The Consumer Council has issued a guide to what's in season at this time of year in Northern Ireland to help guide your food shopping. Potatoes A staple in Northern Ireland , potatoes are cheapest in Autumn. Because they’re grown locally, they’re more affordable than imports, and you can find good deals in supermarkets and farmers' markets.
Tips: stock up on potatoes and store them in a cool, dark place away from onions remove any plastic packaging and remove potatoes that are damaged or going off for best storage, keep them in a cloth bag or reusable vegetable sack to help them last longer Carrots, parsnips, and turnips These root vegetables are at their best in autumn. They’re locally grown, fresher, and sold at reasonable prices. Tips: buy them in bulk and use them in roasted dishes, soups, or salads throughout the week if you can’t use them immediately, cut them into chunks and freeze for a later date Cabbage and kale These greens thrive in the cool autumn weather, making them more affordable and widely available.
Kale has earned superfood status for its rich nutrient profile, packed with vitamins A, C, K, antioxidants, fiber, and minerals like calcium and iron. It supports immunity, digestion, and heart health, making it a valuable addition to your diet. Tips: store them properly and they will last a long time kale can be used in salads, smoothies, soups or roasted or air fired for a nutritious snack Pumpkins and squash Autumn is the peak time for pumpkins and squash.
These large, locally grown vegetables are cheap and versatile. Rather than just throw out your Halloween pumpkins, why not use the flesh and seeds to make a nutritious snack or meal. Tips: roast the seeds for a healthy snack use the squash flesh in soups, stews, salads and sweet or savory pies Apples and pears These fruits are at their cheapest in autumn, especially local varieties.
Tips: buy in bulk and make crumbles, apple sauce, chutneys, or stew them to add to yoghurt for a healthy breakfast or dessert extend the shelf life of your apples by storing them in the fridge wait until pears are ripened enough to your liking and then store in the fridge to keep them that way for three to five days Join our Belfast Live breaking news service on WhatsApp Click this link or scan the QR code to receive breaking news and top stories from Belfast Live. We also treat our community members to special offers, promotions, and adverts from us and our partners. If you don’t like our community, you can check out any time you like.
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