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Fact or Fiction? Buying Local Reduces Carbon Footprints

partysugar — Tue, 23 Sep 2008 11:15:39 -0700

The word "locavore" - only eating foods produced within 100 miles of where you live - was nonexistent a few years ago, but has since become a part of mainstream vocabulary, particularly in cities like San Francisco and New York.

But a recent piece by Conservation magazine, entitled "The Problem of What to Eat," questions the status quo of whether buying local really does reduce one's carbon emission. It's obvious that local produce has a lower carbon footprint when compared to air-freighted foods, but it's actually unclear when comparing local foods to those arriving by sea, rail, or road.

While there's an interesting point made here, I think the carbon issue is really only one part of eating local. Sure, people eat locally to reduce emissions, but there are other reasons, too: The fresh taste of produce picked that day, the ability to talk to farmers firsthand and learn about the food, the idea that we all have a chance to get a little "closer" to our food. So I'll keep trying to buy local when I can.

How about you? Do you eat locally? If so, what are your reasons for being a locavore?

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What Foods Do You Buy Locally?

partysugar — Tue, 22 Apr 2008 09:13:19 -0700

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2007's Favorite Food Trend Is . . .

YumSugar — Wed, 26 Dec 2007 15:40:31 -0800

This year saw the rise of food as a fun activity, fancy fro yo, and sweets that are savory. However none of those topped your favorite-food trends the way local food and high-end comfort food did. The lead kept flip-flopping - currently high-end comfort food is winning by two votes - however I'm going to have to go with the local-food movement.

Eating locally is a trend that has been growing over the years and in 2007 it's finally become something the average person has heard of. The Oxford American Dictionary declared locavore word of the year, and even my local Safeway touts produce that's locally grown. It's also a trend that many restaurants have adopted, and I think it's one that will grow in 2008.

So what do you think of the local-food movement? Do you eat locally-grown food when you can? I try to, but admittedly, I can't do it completely. Give up pineapple? I think not!

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Definition: Locavore

YumSugar — Thu, 15 Nov 2007 15:31:33 -0800

Locavore
Someone whose diet consists of food grown or produced within an area most commonly bound by a 100-mile radius of their home. Locavores usually shun large supermarket chains, opting for farmer's markets and local gardens instead. It is also a current trend for many high-end restaurants as well.

Interesting tidbit - this word was just declared Oxford American Dictionary's 2007 Word of the Year. It was coined in 2005 by a group of four women from San Francisco.

It's also sometimes spelled localvores.

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All the News That's Fit to Eat - Feb. 11, 2009

YumSugar — Wed, 11 Feb 2009 12:30:31 -0800

Meatloaf may be polarizing, but after trying these recipes and pairing tips, you'll be a supporter. - San Francisco Chronicle
Is it possible to still be a locavore during Winter in New England? - Boston Globe
Tough times like these call for unknown Italian wines in the $10 to $20 price range. - New York Times
Words of wisdom on decorating cupcakes like a pro.- Houston Chronicle
For Valentine's Day, opt for a menu that's fun, cheap, and, most importantly, focuses on love. - Chicago Tribune
The only way to locate this taco truck is to follow it on Twitter. - Los Angeles Times
What happens when avid foodies fall for those who aren't? - Washington Post

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Must-Read: Market-Fresh Mixology

YumSugar — Tue, 21 Apr 2009 03:30:22 -0700

Regardless of whether or not we're in the midst of a food revolution, it's undeniable that over the last couple of years, cuisine highlighting fresh-picked produce has gained major ground. In fact, the principles of seasonality and slow food aren't just being applied to food. They're also key in what The New York Times calls the "farm-to-glass movement," where drinks are driven by produce at the peak of the season. If you aren't too familiar with the liquid locavore movement, one new book, Market-Fresh Mixology ($12.21), shows you the ropes. Learn whether it's worth seeking out when you read more.
Pros:

"Tool box" sidebar tells you what equipment you'll need to make each drink.
Introductory chapter primes you on tools of the trade, glassware, and essential bar ingredients.
Classic cocktail recipes include fun tidbits on the history of the cocktail.

Cons:

Some ingredients and garnishes - like gooseberries, juniper berries, and pumpkin liqueur - could potentially be hard to find.
Steps are listed in paragraph form rather than numbered.

Recipes: Depending on how experimental your palate is, some sippers - like the Carrot Chic, Spiced Beet Cocktail, and Fennel Cocktail - may be truly adventurous or a bit too exotic for you. Other eye-catching recipes:

Rhubarb Strawberry Collins
Fresh Strawberry Daiquiri
Kiwi Champagne
Fresh Tomato Bloody Mary
Homemade Cocktail Onions
Papaya Pisco Sour
Blueberry Lavender Mojito

Imagery: Most of the cocktails included in the book are accompanied by vivid, crisp photos.

Overall Rating: If you like to make cocktails at home and appreciate the farm-to-table philosophy, then this book would be right up your alley.

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2007's Favorite Grocery Store Is...

YumSugar — Mon, 24 Dec 2007 07:01:31 -0800

As part of our Best of 2007 roundups, we asked you what your favorite grocery store was. I must say, it was sort of a mixed poll, each region of the country has fantastic local markets - personally I love Nugget markets based out of Woodland, CA - so it was hard to say which place is best. I definitely have to give a nod to the local independent markets and the local farmer's markets - especially considering the word locavore was Oxford American Dictionary's word of the year - however you guys voted for Trader Joe's. This specialty market isn't in all parts of the country, but the folks that shop there are dedicated to their great line of unique products. Do you guys shop there? Do you believe it should be voted the best?