Food for thought

Dear editor:
Here we are, nearing the end of one year and preparing to enter a new one.
For some of us, this is a time of personal reflection. Were our goals met, achievements achieved, and resolutions resolved? Some of us already might have resolutions for the New Year and some of us might be thinking of resolutions to make.
How about a commitment to food localism?
The potential impact of food localism on our local and national economics would be phenomenal. A national commitment to food localism would reduce Canada’s consumption of fossil fuels by as much as 40 percent.
It would wipe out corporate agriculture (the big guys that have the financial clout to lobby our government to make ridiculous regulations in food production for their own gain) and turn our economic and social woes around 180 degrees.
As consumers, we now are in an era where the petroleum industry is competing for the very food we eat. Already in Europe, farmers are experiencing difficulties in purchasing grain feed for their livestock because it is being turned into biofuels.
In Russia, food staples are under a price freeze to ensure availability.
All over the world, the wheat used in the production of breads, baking, pasta, and breakfast cereals is being turned into ethanol—resulting in record high prices for wheat which could increase the price for these food products by more than 100 percent.
Canola, Canada’s largest oil seed crop used in margarine, cooking oils, and a variety of confectionery items, is viewed by the biofuel industry as the crop of the future.
This is just the beginning of this era. What will happen when the fuel industry gets a hold of our meat and milk? If these food items have any form of sugar in them, the potential for energy is there.
Are we going to wait until we starve to death driving around looking for food or are we collectively going to do something about it?
So, what is food localism and how can I, as a consumer, get involved? Food localism is all about buying and consuming food produced locally. Defining local food may vary geographically within Canada. Personally, for this area, a radius of 150 miles within Canadian borders would be a good start.
As a consumer, you can get involved by purchasing locally-produced foods as much as possible. Availability may be limited as we begin this new challenge, but availability can meet the demand in the future.
If cucumbers, tomatoes, peppers, and lettuce can be grown year-round in Edmonton, we can grow them in Rainy River District if the demand is there.
Some local produce available now include beef, buffalo, elk, and pork. Local eggs, root crops like potatoes and turnips, local honey, wild rice, and a variety of local baking also is available.
When shopping, ask for locally-produced meat at the meat counter; insist on making it available or source if from a local producer. There are a number of producers who can provide provincially-approved meat.
During the next growing season, buy your vegetables and fruits at the Clover Valley Farmers’ Market, from local vendors, or grow your own.
Every time you go out to eat, ask if there is anything local on the menu. Politely tell them that you would appreciate it if they would offer locally-produced foods on their menu.
I would not want to deny anyone a juicy apple or orange in January or the crispy spring flavour of peppers in February, but do consider how far the produce has travelled and how much fossil fuel was used to get it in your home.
Make grocery shopping an interactive activity by taking your children along to the store, get them involved by finding food items produced as close to home as possible.
Local food may cost a little more than their imported imposters because they are not corporately or governmentally subsidized, but this choice is yours: pay at your local food vendor or pay at the pump!
So, are we willing to commit to food localism? Are we willing to keep our food dollars local? Are we willing to give our local agricultural economy a chance?
Food localism—that is a big resolution. Make a choice while we still have a choice.
Sincerely,
Nico Veldhuisen
R.R. #2, Emo, Ont.
Editor’s note: Mr. Veldhuisen is a member of the Local Food for
Local People committee.