We’ve all heard about the many environmental challenges we currently face: deforestation, air pollution and the destruction of seabeds, to name just a few. But take heart: together, as consumers, we can make a difference by changing our food choices. We have the power to influence the industry by choosing foods that are good for our health and the environment of tomorrow!
Going green: where to start?
To be more mindful of how our food choices affect the environment, there are a few simple rules you can incorporate into your everyday life. Need a quick and easy tip to make responsible food purchases? Remember the 3N rule: non-packaged, nearby and natural! What does that mean in practice? It means choosing products that come with minimal packaging, are produced in Quebec and promote environmentally friendly agriculture.
Local products: a good place to start!
Pay attention to where the products you buy come from! Food often travels thousands of miles before it reaches your plate. The further a food has to travel, the more pollution it generates. Choosing local and seasonal foods is a responsible choice. Just think of fruits and vegetables! From juicy tomatoes and berries to must-have sweet corn, they are a real treat, especially in the summer! Also remember that when it comes to nutrition, fresh and fruits and vegetables picked at the right time have the most vitamins, minerals and—most importantly—flavour. Stock up on them when they’re in season and enjoy them year round! Additionally, don’t forget about our local cheeses, our cherished maple syrup and our many local farmers. Decades of know-how make all the difference. In short, there is nothing better than greener food choices that support the local economy and are healthy and tasty!
Give vegetarianism a try!
Did you know that producing animal products such as meat and poultry requires far more resources than producing plant-based foods? For example, it takes 13 kilograms of grain and 30 kilograms of hay to produce about one kilogram of beef. Livestock farming is also a major cause of various environmental issues. Why not enjoy vegetarian meals once or twice a week? For example, hop on the Meatless Monday trend at www.lundisansviande.net Give tofu, legumes, nuts and seeds a try! Your health and the environment will thank you!
Can fish be green?
You can’t go wrong with fish! With its high omega-3 content, fish is great for your health. However, some fishing and fish farming methods are harmful to the environment. How do you get around that? For smartphone users, accredited organizations like Ocean Wise and SeaChoice have developed mobile apps to help you make smart choices, no matter where you are. Additionally, feel free ask your grocer or fishmonger questions, since they are experts in sustainable fishing practices!
We can do it, one step at a time!
By making responsible consumer choices, we can help mitigate the ecological, social and economic impacts that are harmful to the health of the planet. Go gradually, at your own pace, by doing a few small things each day. Encourage your family, neighbours and friends to go green too. Together, we can do it! And the next time you visit the grocery store, don’t forget to bring your reusable bag!
