carrots

Carrots are scientifically known as Daucus carota. They belong to the Umbelliferae family along with parsnips, fennel caraway, cumin and dill. Carrots were first cultivated in Afghanistan in the 7th century, Red, black yellow, white, purple - these were the colors that carrots started out with. Everything but orange.

How to Choose CarrotsGood quality carrots should be well-shaped with firm, smooth exteriors. Color should be vibrant orange to orange-red. The deeper the orange-color, the more beta-carotene is present in the carrot. Avoid carrots that
are excessively cracked or forked as well as those that are limp or rubbery.

Where are Carrots Grown?Pacific carrots are grown year round in and around Phoenix, Arizona in partnership with Rousseau Farming Company.

How to Prepare CarrotsWash carrot roots and gently scrub them with a vegetable brush right before eating. Unless the carrots are old, thick or not grown organically, it is not necessary to peel them.

How to Store Carrots To minimize the amount of moisture lost, store them in the coolest part of the refrigerator in a plastic bag or wrapped in a paper towel. Carrots should also be stored away from apples, pears, potatoes and other fruits and vegetables that produce ethylene gas since it will cause them to become bitter.

Nutritional InformationCarrots are high in antioxidants vitamin C and A, low calorie and cholesterol free.