Sunday, February 19, 2012

Are You A Locavore?






Are You A Locavore?

What exactly is local food?
Talk of local food is everywhere. But what does it mean? How local is local? Local is shorthand for an idea that doesn't have a firm definition. Unlike organic standards, which entail specific legal definitions, inspection processes, and labels, local means different things to different people, depending on where they live, how long their growing season is, and what products they are looking for.

Practically speaking, local food production can be thought of in concentric circles that start with growing food at home. The next ring out might be food grown in our immediate community - then state, region, and country. For some parts of the year or for some products that thrive in the local climate, it may be possible to buy closer to home. At other times, or for less common products, an expanded reach may be required.

People who value local as their primary food criterion are sometimes referred to as locavores. Post New Wave Locavore!!! That's Right!

One easy way to start buying local is to choose one product to focus on. Vegetables are often a good place to start. Produce also offers a good introduction to eating seasonally—an excellent way to learn about local agriculture. Then, try seeking out sources for local meat or dairy. Whole Foods Market makes buying local fun and easy.I love the mom and pop shops but Whole Foods Market Certified Organic.... That's Huge!

While local is certainly a flexible term, the basic concept is simple: local foods are produced as close to home as possible. Buying local supports a more sustainable food system because true sustainability goes beyond the methods used in food production to include every step that brings food from farm to plate.

Farmers Markets & Whole Foods Markets are great places to start.
Of course I'm going to tell you to buy from Whole Foods Market ... its not just cos I work for WFM...I know first hand what WFM does for the Organic/Natural food community ..... Its no secret that buying local is the thing to do for your community...check your local Whole Foods Market and I'm sure you will find some amazing new local product that wouldn't have a chance if WFM didn't think Local too.... It's that easy... Buy Local !

- Posted with LOVE from my iPhone

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