Buy Local Products

2023 Author: Leslie Forster | [email protected]. Last modified: 2023-08-03 11:22

If you pay attention to the origin of the food you buy in the market, you will see that they come from hundreds and even thousands of miles away, from the most unsuspected corners of the country and the world. Sometimes we see it directly, as in frozen New Zealand meats or Belgian sweets, other times through the ingredients (“this juice was made with fruits from California, Brazil, Florida, etc., etc.). Although we come to accept this reality, and even enjoy the advantages it brings us, the diversity and remoteness of the provenance in the "fresh" fruit and vegetable section can be more shocking … and less convenient. A trend that is gaining strength every day and more followers is to buy local agricultural products. But are there real reasons to try to consume what is produced in the area where we live? A disadvantage could be that you do not find all the fruits all year round, because you will have to limit yourself to what is in season, but let's see some important advantages and consequences:

• Local foods are fresher and more nutritious. They are often sold within 24 hours of being harvested. As long-distance transportation is not necessary, the fruits are left to ripen on the plants and this is reflected in a better flavor.

• Promoting local agriculture favors the environment. Eliminating the fuel needed to travel long distances reduces pollution.

• It favors the economy of the community. The money you spend on food stays in your community, generates more jobs and improves living conditions.

How to buy local products

There are many ways to tackle this important change in consumption habits, and here are just a few for you to start exploring:

Farmers markets: In almost all urban areas there are fairs where local farmers or their representatives sell their harvest. In addition, they are a pleasant environment to see and meet people.

Kiosks in the farms or places that allow to collect the fruits (u-pick): An excellent excuse to organize a short trip around. If you have children, for them it will be a great teaching and an unforgettable experience.

Arrangements with CSA (Community Supported Agriculture) farms: For a small annual or seasonal fee, you can select a local farm that supplies their produce, including meat and eggs. This helps both the farmers, who have a source of financing, and you.

Supermarkets and restaurants: Find out which establishments in your area offer local products. Many supermarkets are already promoting vegetables and fruits from the area where they are located or neighboring states.