LOCALLY SOURCED FOOD IS GOOD FOR YOU, AND THE ENVIRONMENT

Most people in the US are fortunate to have access to a wide variety of foods from all over the world, no matter the season. Although this is a cultural norm, have you ever stopped to think about where your food is coming from and how your choices impact the environment, your health, and your local farmers?

IT IS ESTIMATED THAT THE AVERAGE AMERICAN MEAL TRAVELS 1,400 MILES TO GET FROM FARM TO PLATE

This long-distance, large-scale transportation of food consumes large quantities of fossil fuels. It is estimated that we currently put almost 10 kcal of fossil fuel energy into our food system for every 1 kcal of energy we get as food. Simply put, that is not an efficient energy exchange.

Foods prepared for long distance transportation are also genetically modified or chemically treated to survive the journey. Ever notice that a distantly grown head of broccoli can “look” fresh for a long time compared to something grown locally? Do you really want to serve “artificially preserved” broccoli to your family?

TAKE ADVANTAGE OF YOUR LOCAL GROWING SEASONS

Rebuilding a sustainable local food system doesn’t mean you should never eat anything that has flown overseas. It just means that you start with what is fresh, local and seasonal. Shopping at the farmers’ market, maintaining a home garden, or participating in a community-supported agriculture program (CSA) are wonderful and sustainable ways to support your local food system.