Everyone's guide to using the power of science to produce healthier and tastier fruits and vegetables From garden to fork, Food Science for Gardeners is everyone's guide to optimizing the quality of garden produce and preparing the most delicious and nutritious food possible. Beginning with a high-level overview of food quality and nutrient density, this invaluable resource then takes a deep, but accessible, dive into: * The essential nutrient groups as well as phytonutrients and their anti-oxidant properties * Factors affecting food safety such as pesticides, microplastics, bacteria, and other forms of chemical and biological contamination * The pros and cons of a host of approaches to food storage and preservation, as well as an extensive variety of cooking methods * Gardening techniques for growing nutritious food * A complete section dedicated to the best growing methods for common fruits and vegetables. Whether you're a home gardener, local food enthusiast, or small-scale farmer,