Summer Best – Figs

Maywood Farms Corning, CA

Second-generation California farmers. Raley’s farmers for more than 3 years.

Nutrition

• Figs are a staple in the Mediterranean diet, which numerous studies have shown may be beneficial to heart health and supporting weight management.
• Figs contain polyphenols, which may help protect against sun damage.(1)
• Tips from Maywood Farms Co-owner Bob Steinacher and Managing Partner Kären Steinacher:

How to Select

• Figs should have a little give but will soften over time.
• For Black Mission and Brown Turkey figs, look for a deep purple color – though Brown Turkeys may have some yellow stripes on the shoulder – the area just below the stem. Smaller Kadota figs are yellow and hold their shape well during cooking.

How to Store

• Store in the refrigerator, in an open container or something breathable, such as a paper bag.
• After a while in the refrigerator, they may be wrinkly but this is okay. Carefully watch figs that “sweat” as this will foster mold.

A Farmer’s Story

Bob Steinacher didn’t inherit a farming legacy, his family grew up in Silicon Valley. However, Bob never doubted his calling in life.

“I really wanted to become a farmer, I loved growing things,” Bob says. “I’ve always had a big garden, always had that need to watch things grow and for being outside, connected to the land.”

Now, Erik and Deena – Bob and Kären’s children – are excited to take over the family business and build a legacy all their own.

Sources:

(1) Plant Polyphenols as Dietary Antioxidants in Human Health and Disease