Understanding Ten Years of Dramatic Developments in Local Food

Page 1

U d t di T Y f D ti

House -grown e farm ubs comes, er, Eric pes of

For many, local food is an integral part of their identity and culture; it is a part of their roots, and they value the ties they forge via the production and consumption of local food. In addition, children are eager to learn about the food they eat and how it is created, and they are fascinated by the stories of the plants they grow or purchase. These concepts are essential for people of all ages and backgrounds but are necessary for those who may be low-income and have limited access to food In this approach, local food systems may function as networks of social capital that improve the social fabric of communities and contribute to more equitable economic outcomes

Since they appreciate the excellent quality and freshness of the food they feed their family, many individuals prefer to grow their food or support local farmer's markets They like the camaraderie among gardeners and the community, the sense of success they get from caring for their gardens, and the awareness that they positively affect their health and happiness. Direct sales are also driven by the excellent quality and freshness of the vegetables cultivated in personal and communal gardens. Specifically, they are contemplating the impact of food production and transportation on the environment (concerning carbon emissions)

Local food markets have been associated with a broader range of social and economic benefits, such as increased consumer demand for healthy, locally-produced food, improved health outcomes, lower energy use in production, reduced transportation emissions, and increased reinvestment in the local economy. As a result, more jobs have been generated, salaries have grown, and people are more engaged in their communities (Malagon-Zaldua et al , 2018; Varner & Otto, 2008)

Turn static files into dynamic content formats.

Create a flipbook
Issuu converts static files into: digital portfolios, online yearbooks, online catalogs, digital photo albums and more. Sign up and create your flipbook.