Shopping locally is not always the most convenient option, despite the many benefits to patronizing local businesses and buying local foods. The quality is often better, the money goes towards a small business rather than a distant corporation, and it helps build a sense of community between buyers and sellers. So, here are five simple tips on how to shop and eat locally.
1. Make Small Substitutions – Rather than completely revamping all of your food shopping habits, substitute just a few grocery items. Switch from a national brand of bread to a locally baked loaf. Pick up fresh milk and eggs from a local dairy farm. Making these small changes will gradually lead to larger changes.
2. Shop Differently at the Supermarket – Some supermarket chains carry local products and showcase them around the store, especially in the produce section. Seek out these local foods and try them. You can also ask your supermarket manager to carry more local items. Filling a grocery cart with foods grown or packaged in your area is one of the most convenient and simple ways to buy local. As a bonus, you can take advantage of store sales to get a better deal.
3. Search Online – A quick Internet search for local food businesses in your area can yield plenty of new options, from farmer’s markets to fisheries. Specialty food stores will provide exotic fare as well. Some businesses offer great website perks like online ordering, home delivery, or free shipping. Send them an email to let them know you appreciate being able to shop online.
4. Locally Go Out to Eat – Did you know that many restaurants, coffee shops, and delis buy their foods from local businesses? What could be simpler than having a nice meal crafted with local ingredients? Some restaurants will even put the name of the farm or bakery on the menu, so you can take note of where your lunch is coming from. When you buy a meal from a local restaurant which uses local foods, you’re helping both the restaurant and the food supplier.
5. Sourced From Your Own Backyard – Fresh herbs on your windowsill, tomatoes on the porch, and carrots in the garden – the best source of local foods is growing them yourself. With a few containers, some seedlings, and a watering can, you can easily harvest fresh, delicious, and locally harvested produce. Build menus around these seasonal ingredients and enjoy eating from the most local source you can: your own backyard. It helps local farmers and food businesses when you shop for local foods. Get to know your food growers, buy their produce and their products, eat at restaurants which use their foods, and try local ingredients from your grocery store. It’s a small change that makes a huge difference.
