"The wonderful thing about food is you get three votes a day. Every one of them has the potential to change the world." - Michael Pollan (Author, Journalist, and Food Policy Activist)
The American food system is unsustainable. It is harmful to both our health and the environment, and it’s time we take action.
Voting with your fork means making informed decisions about the foods you choose to purchase and consume. Each meal is an opportunity to support a more sustainable food system, tastier food, and a healthier community.
Here’s Your 5 Step Guide
1) Shop at Farmers Markets
There is likely a farmers market within 5 miles of your house, selling delicious seasonal produce at more affordable prices than your local supermarket. Find it by searching your zip code in the USDA National Farmers Market Directory.
2) Join a CSA
CSA stands for community supported agriculture, which is essentially a subscription to a weekly box of fresh fruits, vegetables, and sometimes meat or dairy produced by a local farmer. Find a CSA near you with the USDA CSA Directory.
3) Look for Local Organic Produce at the Supermarket
Many large supermarket chains including (but not limited to) Publix, Whole Foods, and Harris Teeter, all carry local organic produce. Don’t hesitate to ask your grocer about the sourcing of their food. Learn about the health and environmental benefits of eating organic on The Organic Center’s official webpage.
4) Eat at Restaurants that Support Local Farmers
Why pay to dine out and be served produce that’s traveled hundreds of miles to reach your plate. It’s no wonder most restaurants drown vegetables in butter and salt to disguise the loss of flavor and nutrients. Ask your server where the restaurant sources it’s food, or search for restaurants that source locally at www.eatwellguide.org.
5) Visit a Community Garden or Grow Your Own
Community gardens are a great place to get local produce at especially low prices. We’re talking broke college student low. They also often hold workshops to teach you how to grow in the garden or in your own backyard. Use American Community Garden Association’s search tool to find one near you.
Our current food system isn’t working for us. Our food choices are an expression of our values, and if you value your health and the health of the planet, take these steps to Vote With Your Fork!
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