A new study that compared Calfornia-grown organic strawberries to conventional ones found that organic ones win. That is to say, organic ones "were more nutritious, had a longer shelf life, and left the soil in healthier condition compared to the conventional crop," says KPCC. The upside is the higher concentration of antioxidants and vitamin C, the downside is the smaller size and less potassium and phosphorus. Strawberries are a $1.6 billion industry in California, with much of it coming out of Ventura County. more ›

Perhaps this is another reason to go organic at the farmers market. Methyl bromide, a popular fumigant used on Strawberry fields from Ventura and up the California coast, is being phased out because it "depletes the earth's protective ozone layer," according to the Associated Press. In its place, the state's Department of Pesticide Regulation is proposing to allow the use of methyl iodide instead, which some fear is worse. more ›

Gilroy may have its Garlic Festival and Los Angeles may have lost its Tofu Festival (and let's not forget the upcoming Asparagus Festival in Stockon and Artichoke Festival in Castroville), but out in neighboring Ventura County, the California Strawberry Festival continues to rock on, bringing out hordes of people. This year, the sweet fête will take place on the third weekend of May and will, as always, include strawberry-infused foods of every kind: kabobs, funnel cake, flan, cotton candy, beer, wine and more. Unconfirmed, but we hear this year will include some celebrity chefs and mixologist-inspired drinks. The festival is also host to one massively large arts & crafts section, with around 250 booths. General admission is $12 more ›

This annual fundraiser is focused on the legendary Ventura County strawberry, and has lots of food, crafts, and entertainment from 10 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. at the Strawberry Meadows of College Park (3250 South Rose Avenue, Oxnard). Tickets: $12 Adults; $5 Youth (Ages 5-12); $8 Seniors (55+); $8 Active Military and Dependents with ID; Children 4 and under are free more ›