B1 Reading – Eating Local, Eating Seasonal

Read the text below and answer the multiple-choice questions.

Many people are choosing to eat local and seasonal food. “Local” means the food is grown or produced near where you live, while “seasonal” means it is harvested at its natural time of year. These choices can bring several benefits.
First, local produce usually travels a shorter distance, so it often tastes fresher and keeps more nutrients. It can also reduce transport emissions, which is better for the environment. Second, seasonal food is typically cheaper because it doesn’t require special storage or long-distance shipping. For example, strawberries are often more affordable and sweeter in early summer than in winter.
Eating this way can also support small farmers and local markets. When you buy directly from them, more of your money stays in the community. Finally, cooking with seasonal ingredients encourages variety in your meals—you might try pumpkin soup in autumn or tomato salads in summer. Of course, there are limits: some regions can’t grow certain foods all year, and imported products may be necessary. Still, choosing local and seasonal options when possible is a simple step toward healthier eating and a greener planet.