Stop & Shop offers high quality, fresh from farm produce

 Ice cream and popsicles aren't the only treats to offer kids after a long day of fun in the sun. With an abundance of in season fruits and veggies, Summer is the perfect time to instill healthy eating habits. Thanks to Stop & Shop's 60+-year partnership with local farmers, shoppers can purchase high quality, fresh from the farm produce.

Shoppers interested in fresh, local food can rest easy as the summer months in the Northeast bring plentiful nutrient-rich fruits and veggies. Corn, tomatoes, squash, cabbage, beans, peppers, cucumbers and herbs top the list of what's hot off the farms this month as farmers prepare for their peak harvest season in August and September.  

"As the largest buyer and seller of local produce in the northeast, Stop & Shop is proud of our partnership with local farmers. Not only does local produce provide great tasting and flavorful meals for your family, you can often lower your total grocery bill when you purchase local," said Andrea Astrachan, consumer advisor for Stop & Shop. "Local produce is sold right after it's picked, retaining freshness and nutrients for the kids to enjoy."

Here are some popular fruits and veggies that are currently in season in the Northeast and tips on how to select and maximize freshness.

• Corn – Look for tight, green husks and shiny, yellow silk. Store refrigerated in a perforated plastic bag for up to one week. When grilling, soak un-shucked corn in water for 30 min. – one hour before grilling.
• Tomatoes – Look for plump, bright-colored, smooth-skinned tomatoes that yield to slight pressure. Any soft spots are the start of bruises, which can shorten tomatoes' shelf life. Store at room temperature for several days and keep out of direct sunlight, which can lead to uneven ripening.
• Bell Peppers – Look for bright, waxy, wrinkle-free skins and green stems. Wrinkly skin and softness are signs of an old pepper. Store unwashed in a plastic bag. Refrigerate for up to one week. Tip: Green peppers stay fresh slightly longer than red or yellow varieties.
• Cucumbers – Look for firmness and deep green color. Avoid wider cucumbers, which may indicate that they are full of seeds and short on flavor. Refrigerate whole for up to one week. Tip: If the cukes are unwaxed, keep them tightly wrapped in plastic to avoid moisture loss.