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If you’re a summer produce stan, you’re probably going through it right now. You’ve likely been waiting all year long to be able to delight in seasonal berries, fresh herbs, and tomatoes straight from the farmer’s market — or even just a crisp Caesar salad on a patio. But unfortunately, despite the warm weather and sunny skies saying summer is in full swing, summer produce season is decidedly not, thanks to the cyclosporiasis outbreak currently sweeping the country.
Cyclosporiasis is a gastrointestinal illness that occurs as the result of the cyclospora bacteria. The illness is contracted through the consumption of contaminated food and water — such as, in this case, fresh produce. While cyclosporiasis is not new (the CDC considers May 1 to August 31 to be “cyclosporiasis season” each year), this year is unique due to a large, unexpected outbreak affecting thousands across the United States. On July 14, the CDC reported there were 1,645 confirmed cases in the country. While the illness is not usually life-threatening, the symptoms — including nausea, diarrhea, vomiting, fever, and unintended weight loss — can be severe and may require medical examination. For that reason, people are kinda freaking out.
It’s important to note that a cyclosporiasis outbreak does not mean you can’t enjoy your fruits and vegetables; you just need to take care when preparing them for consumption… and maybe be judicious about what you choose to eat. The CDC is encouraging people to wash hands with soap and water after handling produce, wash fruits and vegetables under running water before consumption, and be thorough in this washing (even if labels say the produce has been pre-washed). Even with these recommendations, though, the outbreak seems to be spreading, which has left many avoiding certain produce deemed high-risk altogether — namely, produce typically eater raw such as bagged lettuce, berries, and snow peas.
So, if you’re erring on the side of caution and therefore mourning your lack for fresh fruits and vegetables this summer, here are nine produce-themed items to fill the veggie-sized hole in your heart.
Bath & Body Works Off the Vine Body Spray ($5)
If tomatoes are your favorite summer produce, then look no further than Off the Vine for your scent needs this summer. Formulated with the scent of heirloom tomatoes, spring blossoms, and fresh greenery, this body spray is sure to make you feel like you’re picking tomatoes off the vine — no scrubbing in the sink required.
Chicken Caesar Salad Earrings ($30)
Etsy truly is a magical place. If you’re missing out on Caesar salads this summer, consider kitschy earrings instead. Just searching “chicken caesar salad earrings” on Etsy will yield you with pages of results — pick your favorite, from the chunky and detailed to simplistic and minimal, and enjoy.
Haus Labs Glassy Lip + Cheek Blush Balm Stick in Glassy Acai ($34)
Another fun way to incorporate produce into your summer this year is through your makeup. Don’t worry, you don’t have to do a full face inspired by carrots or only use products with lettuce-green packaging. Instead, opt for a berry-colored blush to evoke blackberries, raspberries, and strawberries (oh my!) in your summer look. Haus Labs’s Glassy Acai is sure to make you feel the berry rush this summer.
Lauren Conrad Gold Tone Strawberry Drop Hoop Earrings ($13)
Another piece of jewelry for your summer collection, these earrings feature a small gold-plated hoop with a ripe strawberry dangling off the end. Composed of more than 50% recycled zinc and nickel-free, these earrings are a fun way to add whimsy to your wardrobe.
Bath & Body Works Carrot Charm Body Wash ($4)
This Carrot Charm Body Wash, also available as a lotion, is a bright, earthy way to change up your shower routine. Formulated with dermatologist-tested ingredients and vitamins, Carrot Charm features a blend of scents including crisp root vegetables, ripened fruit, and sunlight.
Bombas Women’s Farmer’s Market Quarter Socks ($48)
This pack of cutesy white quarter socks features three pairs, each with an embroidery of fruits at the top: strawberry, cherry, and watermelon. The strawberry and cherry socks are also available for purchase individually if you don’t need a total sock drawer refresh. Not only will this purchase make you feel like you’re walking through a farmer’s market, but also, for each pair of socks you buy, Bombas will donate a pair of socks to someone in need.
GAP Favorite Crewneck T-Shirt – Strawberries ($17)
A more understated way to incorporate strawberries into your closet this summer, GAP’s strawberry print T-shirt is a 100% white cotton tee with a soft, pinky red print of strawberries over the top. Currently on sale for $16.99 and available in sizes XS through XXL, this shirt is perfect to pair with denim while you take long summer walks.
Tinte Cosmetics Blueberry Lip Licking Flavored Balm ($7)
Not only will this blueberry-flavored lip balm transport you to a field of blueberries, but it also comes in a cute golden tin decorated with pictures of blueberries (so even after your lip balm runs out, you’ll have a little container to keep for decoration). And don’t worry, even though it’s blue in the package, this lip balm won’t turn your lips blue — it’ll show up as a sheer, clear shine.
East End Press Vegetable Sewn Garland ($24)
East End Press paper garlands are colorful and bold upgrades to any space, with the thickness and print quality on the paper helping them stand up to time, the sun, and daily wear and tear. The Vegetable Sewn Garland features 12 vegetables across three yards of garland, with designs including lettuce, carrot, tomato, eggplant, onion, and corn, among others. Even if you can’t go to the farmer’s market, you can bring the farmer’s market to your home with this decor.