Eating locally
Better for you, better for the environment
Trinidad and Tobago boasts of a diverse agriculture due to its tropical climate. We are able to produce locally grown produce, seafood, livestock, and other packaged products. When we choose to buy local food and beverages, whether it’s at the market, or the grocery store, we are benefitting not just ourselves but the environment.
Local produce is often higher in nutrients, as they have a shorter journey to travel than fruits and vegetables that have to be imported. Fruits and vegetables can begin to lose their nutrients from the time they are picked and are often picked before they are ripe if they have to be imported. Choosing seasonal fruits and vegetables have also shown to be higher in nutrients and flavour than produce imported out of season. A study by Montclair State University found that the vitamin C level in broccoli grown in season was twice as high as broccoli imported out of season.
It’s comforting to know we can access all our vitamins and minerals through locally grown produce. Here are just a few:
Consuming more local food cuts down on the amount of food miles (the distance food travels from farm to fork), and therefore reduces the carbon footprint compared to buying imported food. Buying local produce supports our local farmers and producers. When local farmers are being well paid for their produce, they are less likely to sell their land — helping preserve green spaces. With a growing demand for local produce, it can allow for young farmers to enter the market and develop unlikely spaces into growing gardens. The next time you’re at the grocery, look out for local, seasonal produce.
Information this week by: Kirstyn Church, an Associate Nutritionist with Nutrition Consulting Services. Tru Valu Supermarket is one of the leading grocery chains in Trinidad and Tobago with five stores and the best customers. Have a question? Email us truvalusupermarkets+wellness@gmail.com.
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All of the content presented by Tru Valu Supermarkets on our Medium channel, including written text, photographs, videos, and graphics, as well as other resources we might include is meant to educate and it should not be perceived as a substitution for professional medical advice, as well as diagnosis or treatment. Always consult your doctor or nutrition advisor before making major lifestyle and diet changes.
