Tuesday, October 15, 2013

General Facts About Foods Grown Locally

By Megan Landry


Local food is a term that is now being tied to a type of movement. That is, a collaboration between various parties to build food economies that are self-reliant and based locally. People who support this movement have a great interest in foods that have been grown locally, as well as products made by locals. They prefer things these types of things rather than products by corporatized institutions.

There are many benefits that come with such economies. Most strive to create sustainable production, consumption, distribution and processing. This is done as a way to enhance the social, environmental and economic health of a particular area.

Food systems refers to how food reaches consumers and is produced. It might also be used to classify the food choices of people. The three key components associated with this: political or economic, cultural or social, and biological. Biological is used when discussing organic process of food production. Political or economic refers to the participant moderation and system controls. There is also cultural and social that relates to the personal and cultural values and relations in a community that impact how food is used.

Local systems of this type are considered an alternative. This is because it is different than the corporate and global models often used and including producers and consumers being separated by numerous other parties, such as processors, shippers, manufacturers or retailers. The traditional systems have become extremely complex networks with various parts. The objective of a local system is to increase food security, and ensure economic, social and ecological sustainability of communities.

There are numerous reasons why people prefer these systems. Most programs associated with this movement offer convenience. People can do one-stop shopping and receive their food and products easily. There are some groups that even offer weekly deliveries throughout the growing season. Another perk is the freshness of the products. Products served in this manner are typically produced, cleaned, handled, stored and given out using processes that preserve the quality, character, texture and taste. Most are freshly harvested and safe.

Additionally, things produced locally are also usually sustainable. They come from gardens and farms of locals. This is important to ensuring that purchases are made within local economies and allows the original producers the chance to strengthen their businesses and diversify. It helps sustain businesses that are locally operated.

Some criticism is directed toward such systems. Supporters note the environmental, community and economic perks that come of eating locally. When it comes to community, this encourages interaction between local consumers and farms. On an environmental level, foods that are minimally processed, grown locally and in seasons are friendly to the climate and require less energy. In terms of economy, the systems provide investments that boost economic and social opportunities.

Many benefits are available through foods and products grown locally. Some people criticize this alternative approach as a food system. Nonetheless, supporters say there are economic, environmental and community benefits that come with these local food systems. Those interested in this movement should search to find out what is available in their area of residence.




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