Best Practices for Reducing Food Miles

Reducing food miles, the distance food travels from production to the consumer, helps decrease carbon emissions and supports sustainable food systems. Here are best practices for minimizing food miles: Buy Local: Purchase food from local farmers, markets, or community-supported agriculture (CSA) programs. Locally sourced foods often travel shorter distances, resulting in fresher products and reduced transportation-related emissions. Seasonal Eating: Eating fruits and vegetables in season reduces the need for long-distance transportation from other regions or countries. Seasonal produce is typically fresher, more nutritious, and supports local agriculture. Grow Your Own: Home gardening or participating in community gardens allows you to grow fresh produce right at home. This significantly reduces the food miles associated with grocery store trips and packaging. Support Regional Brands: When shopping, opt for food products from regional suppliers and manufacturers. This practice helps reduce the energy and emissions associated with long-haul transportation of national or international goods. Preserve Local Foods: Learn how to can, freeze, or dry local foods for off-season use. This reduces reliance on imported foods during non-growing seasons and promotes a sustainable diet year-round. Choose Low-Mileage Proteins: Opt for plant-based proteins, which generally have lower transportation and environmental impacts compared to animal-based proteins. If consuming meat, choose locally sourced, pasture-raised options. Minimize Processed Foods: Processed foods often have higher food miles due to extensive supply chains and manufacturing processes. Instead, focus on whole, unprocessed foods available locally. By adopting these strategies, consumers can contribute to a more sustainable food system while supporting local economies and reducing their carbon footprint.