The produce sections in northern Illinois supermarkets are becoming crowded. Unfamiliar fruits and vegetables are joining potatoes, cabbage and tomatoes.
The expanded selection of food is largely the result of increased global trade. For example, many older northern Illinoisans remember that when they were younger, watermelon or cantaloupe were only available in local grocery stores in the summer. Now, they can buy fresh melon — as well as corn on the cob, peaches and yellow squash — all year long. In addition, they can now enjoy fruits and vegetables that were unheard of when they were children. Although some of these foods are imported, many are grown in the U.S.
Many northern Illinois consumers have tried — and liked — the following exotic foods, but they don’t know much about them. Others are waiting for feedback from their relatives and friends before experimenting with these foods.
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