Go Local, not Loco!
November 15, 2010 at 3:52 am 5 comments
We live in a world where people are spending (or starting to spend) more time asking about the sources of their food. Our Farmer’s Market at Wychwood is developing signage to help increase the transparency of each vendor. We want to know the practices of our local farmers. What does “organic” really mean? How about “local”? ”Sustainable”? ”Fair-trade”? You can almost go crazy trying to figure out where everything comes from. And how do we choose between “organic” and “local” when it’s one or the other? Does local always trump organic? Is it the other way around?
We are asking these same questions at Five Shades of Green. Our goal is to be as organic and as local (and/or locally sourced) as possible. Our cinnamon, agave, and coconut butter all come from Chocosol. We buy our greens from Everdale Organic Farm and Kind Organics; our sweet potatoes are obtained from Round Plains Plantation. However, there are many ingredients that seem to be more challenging to source. What about pumpkin seeds? We sure have a lot of pumpkins in Ontario. But, where are the organic, local pumpkin seeds? Try raisins. We definitely have Ontario grapes. So, where are the Ontario raisins?
It’s an ongoing exploration. While it can be frustrating sometimes, it’s incredibly rewarding. Knowing more about where your food comes from means you’re more informed every time you eat. How’s that for food for thought?
So, please join us in this conversation. Leave a comment below. Share your thoughts about local, seasonal, organic, etc.
Let’s talk!
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1.
cassandra | November 15, 2010 at 1:22 pm
love these questions. and i’m sure it’ll be an on-going conversation for us… its also interesting the question of food equity and accessibility versus the high price of organic food. whole, organic foods can be expensive, and thus unattainable for many, so how can we continue to provide and promote organic food and also make it affordable?
ok so my thoughts on seasonal and local food: relationships. i feel like what inspires me to buy local and seasonal is not only the value itself and what that means for the planet, but also for the relationships and community that are formed around making these types of food choices. think farmer’s markets. buying straight from the farmer, getting to know their crops, their harvest seasons, and their names!…is all about supporting local, and also building friendships and real connections, so many motivatations to go local!
2.
Jason | November 16, 2010 at 4:43 am
Going local takes alot of digging….. And that’s a great experience because you get to find out who has all those beautiful squash, onions, garlic and dried fruits in the root cellar!!
Your idea is a great approach to health and much needed everywhere……
Have fun ladies!!
3.
cassandra | November 16, 2010 at 5:16 pm
what does organic food production actually look like in practice? – thats a biggie. it’s a valued word in our culture, but do we really know what it is? this is what i discovered: certified organic regulations are different in canada than the usa. the fact that the standard is different is interesting and therefore room for critical questioning. hydroponics is a method of growing plants using mineral nutrient solutions, in water, without soil, and cannot be certified organic under canada regulations, yet the practice is aligned with all of the ‘organic’ standards, just not permitted because it is a soil-less culture. why is that? doing more research….
4.
Dara | November 16, 2010 at 8:20 pm
I would love to know which is best — “local OR organic” — when you can’t have both. If you find out, please share the details!
5.
jeff golfman | November 24, 2010 at 7:12 am
The more local, organic, non gmo the better is my motto ! We need to get back to the basics. To nature. Eating more fresh fruits and veggies. Can’t wat to try your delicious foods next time i am in TO.