With globalisation at its peak, we have everything at our fingertips, literally. A scroll through your phone and you can order anything you want from across the world. There was a time when you could only wish, but now you can ‘add to cart’ too, which is great. But while big-brand products have become more accessible and getting them more convenient, we have overlooked the value of home-grown, locally-produced foods. When was the last time you shopped local products, supported small-time businesses in your own region? Did you know that by buying local produces, you could actually be reducing your carbon footprint?
Over time, we have become so mesmerised by what the global market has to offer that we have stopped giving thought to sustainability. Speaking with the OnlyMyHealth team, Bhavisha Khuman, Nutritionist and Dietician, Jaslok Hospital & Research Centre, Mumbai, discusses the many benefits of consuming local foods and how it safeguards the environment.
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What’s So Good About Eating Local Foods?
Eating local foods can offer several benefits, both for individuals and for the environment. Here are some key advantages of consuming local foods:
Freshness and flavour
Local foods are often harvested at their peak ripeness and delivered to nearby markets quickly. This means they are generally fresher and retain more flavour compared to foods that have travelled long distances. The taste and texture of freshly picked produce can be truly delightful.
Nutritional value
Locally grown foods have the potential to be more nutritious because they spend less time in transit and storage. This shorter time frame allows them to retain more of their essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. Consuming nutrient-rich foods can contribute to a healthier diet. According to Bhavisha, fresher and higher nutritional value local foods are typically harvested or produced closer to the time of purchase, which means they spend less time in transit and on storage shelves.
Support for local economy
“Purchasing local foods supports local farmers and producers, contributing to the growth and sustainability of the local economy,” said Bhavisha, adding that it helps create jobs and keeps money circulating within the community, fostering economic resilience and reducing dependence on distant food sources.
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Environmental Impact
Eating locally can have a positive environmental impact. Locally sourced foods require shorter transportation distances, which means less fuel consumption and greenhouse gas emissions associated with long-distance transportation. Additionally, local farmers often adopt sustainable farming practices that can minimise the use of pesticides and synthetic fertilisers, promoting soil health and biodiversity. But how do you support the environment by choosing local foods?
Reduced carbon footprint
One of the significant environmental benefits of local food is the reduction in carbon emissions associated with transportation. When food travels long distances, it requires transportation by trucks, ships, or aeroplanes, which contribute to greenhouse gas emissions.
Protection of biodiversity
Supporting local food systems can help preserve biodiversity. Local farmers often cultivate a wider variety of crops, including heirloom and native varieties. This diversification of crops promotes biodiversity by maintaining a range of plant species and genetic diversity.
Water conservation
Buying local produces helps in water conservation as local farmer often prioritise water conservation practices. They’re more likely to use efficient irrigation techniques and employ water-saving strategies, such as drip irrigation or rainwater harvesting. By consuming local foods, you indirectly support these water conservation efforts, reducing the strain on local water resources.
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Minimised food waste
Data suggests that around 14%of food produced is lost between harvest and retail, while an estimated 17% of total global food production is wasted. Local food systems can help minimise food waste. With shorter supply chains, there is less time for food to spoil during transportation and storage. Additionally, local farmers often have direct relationships with consumers through farmers' markets, community-supported agriculture (CSA) programs, or local food cooperatives.
Enhanced soil health
Local farmers often focus on sustainable soil management practices, such as cover cropping, composting, and crop rotation.
By supporting local food systems, you actively participate in creating a more sustainable and environmentally friendly food system. These actions can have a positive impact on reducing carbon emissions, protecting biodiversity, conserving resources, and promoting sustainable agricultural practices.
Your Next Step To Sustainability
If you’re someone who is not only looking for fresher, more nutritious foods but also enthusiastic about leaving minimal carbon footprint, then you can Shop local from Aazol, an organisation that sources authentic food products from communities all over Maharashtra at fair prices and curates them through a rigorous quality check process.