Devolin Column

May 11, 2007

Buy Local.  Eat Local.

Recently, you may have noticed references to “local food” or “farm fresh”, a new trend in food production and selling.

As the name implies, local food is all about people buying and eating food produced in their local area.

In the extreme, some people only eat local food (goodbye coffee and orange juice). In most cases, people make a conscious effort to buy local food whenever possible.

There are three main reasons people give for buying and eating local food.

Quality – Some people buy and eat local food because it tastes better, offers better nutritional value and was produced under Canada’s world-class food safety standards.

Local Jobs – Some people buy and eat local food because they want to keep their food dollars in the local economy and support their neighbours’ jobs.

Environment – Some people buy and eat local food because they know that the further food travels, the bigger its negative environmental impact. (i.e. food miles)

The bottom line is that any reason to buy and eat local food is a good reason.

In the coming months, I encourage you to visit farmers markets and stop at farm-gate stands. It may take a few minutes, but I predict you will appreciate and enjoy the local food you buy.

Take time to think about what you and your family are eating. Take time to think about where your food dollar is going. And take time to consider the miles your food has traveled to get to your plate.

For example, our family is happy to participate in a “harvest share” program in Haliburton. Every week in the summer my wife drops by a local farm to pick up a box of local produce.

Beyond the obvious food value, Ursula and I also recognize that our kids are learning where food comes from, and when different local foods are in season.

In terms of the future of local farms and young farmers, I also believe there are opportunities in the production of local food.

For restaurateurs, I encourage you to source local food – and let your customers know that you are serving local food whenever possible.