Seasonal & Simple

Functionality & Mechanism

This regional food guide, developed by the University of Missouri Extension in partnership with several state universities, supports consumers in purchasing and preparing local produce. The application organizes fruits and vegetables by growing season across four Midwestern states, providing detailed instructions on selection, storage, and preparation for each item. It also integrates simple, seasonal recipes and a directory of farmers' markets to facilitate farm-to-table meal planning and shopping, focusing on produce at its peak freshness and flavor.

Development & Context

• The free mobile application was developed as a digital version of a popular University of Missouri Extension publication on enjoying fresh, seasonal produce.
• It contains seasonality charts, nutritional facts, and preparation instructions for a wide variety of produce grown in the region, including less common vegetables.
• The news coverage highlights a feature that allows users to locate farmers' markets in and around Missouri counties, connecting them directly with local growers.

Intended Use & Scope

This application is designed for consumers in the Midwest seeking to purchase and prepare locally grown, seasonal produce. Its primary function is as a rapid-response resource for use at farmers' markets or grocery stores, offering guidance on produce selection and meal planning. Information is based on news coverage and extension publications, not peer-reviewed research.