Think Global, Act Local

Fruits and vegetables travel an average of 2,500 kilometers to reach your plate. But the luxury of the global food market bringing foreign produce to Grey Bruce certainly does not help the environment. And the taste and freshness can’t compare with home-grown. Its time we reassess where we are getting our food and what price we are willing to pay for sustainable choices. Here are three things you can do to support local agriculture; each requires a certain amount of effort on your part.

SMALL EFFORT

1.      In the grocery store, check fresh, canned and frozen food to see where it originates. Try to purchase only local, Ontario or Canadian produce. Let the store manager know you interest in purchasing more locally produced foods.

MODERATE EFFORT

2.      Buy from local market gardens, farmer’s markets, Good Food Box programs or for a great family outing try a pick-your-own farm.

BIGGER EFFORT

3.      Plant your own garden or get involved with a community garden. The time and effort is rewarded with fresh and delicious produce.

All three actions can provide a safe, affordable and nutritious source of produce.

A conscious effort to buy local or grow your own offers an opportunity to get involved with your neighbours and community to become an active participant in the cycle of local food.

Getting involved can increase your consumption of produce. Only 35% of Grey and Bruce county residents consume the recommended 5-10 servings a day of fruit and vegetables. Eating more fruits and vegetables may reduce your risk for chronic diseases such as heart disease, diabetes, obesity and certain cancers. Consumption of local produce benefits the local agricultural economy, increases productivity of workers and improves quality of life for individuals and future generations. Ask yourself what effort you are willing to make to benefit yourself and your community. Buy local. Eat local!

For more information about healthy eating and active living programs, call Public Health at 519-376-9420 or 1-800-263-3456, or visit our web site at www.publichealthgreybruce.on.ca.

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