“Every Time We Eat, We Are Essentially Eating Oil”

Is it possible that what we eat contributes greatly to our carbon footprint? Is it possible that we can cause change, and help the environment by changing our eating habits? It has been said by many respected environmentalists that “every time we eat, we are essentially eating oil“.

The idea here is that nearly all of the steps involved in the cultivation and processing of our modern foods are dependent on this single, non-renewable resource. It is believed that there is a 10:1 ratio of energy used versus energy obtained for fruit and vegetable cultivation. Similarly, when we speak of vegetables and fruits grown abroad, the ratio looks a little more like 127:1. This only takes into account cultivation and transportation and leaves packaging and all other steps out of the equation.

There are definite environmental and economical benefits to purchasing locally produced food items. Not only does this reduce the amount of fuel, and associated costs used in transportation, this also benefits local producers by allowing them to sell produce locally and having them benefit financially.

Next time you are at the market doing your grocery shopping, have a look at the ‘Product Of” labels and do your best to purchase locally produced, organically grown items for your home!