Harvest of the Month

What is the Harvest of the Month? 

Harvest of the Month (HOTM) is a nutrition education program that celebrates the bounty and diversity of fruits and vegetables grown in California. In OUSD, we use the HOTM program to provide education on fruits and vegetables, our food system, and California agriculture.

Nutrition Services plays a crucial role in the HOTM program by serving the HOTM every day on school produce bars. We also work closely with the Education and Community Programs team at the Center to source HOTM produce from Organic, BIPOC-Owned, Woman-Owned, Local, or Small-Scale farms in California.

October's Harvest of the Month: Cucumber!

Cucumbers are low in calories and high in fiber which is a great combination for healthy eating! They also contain vitamins like A, K, and C and minerals like magnesium and potassium that your body needs to function at its best. These vitamins and minerals support everything from bones to immune health. 

Cucumbers are 95% water and are rich in electrolytes they can help prevent dehydration after recess or sports. Eating Cucumbers regularly can help reduce skin problems and infections as well as help you sleep better. You can add some cucumber slices and mint to water to make refreshing “spa water”. They will be on our Produce Bars in October, add some to your plate when you see them!

To learn some more cucumber facts visit the Center's Education and Community Program's web page.