By ASHLEY CORBETT

There is a quote, “if you eat food, you’re involved in agriculture,” which shows that we as consumers play a large role in the many aspects of food production. The National Press Foundation reported on some interesting facts:

The world’s population is estimated to double by 2050. Those are quite a bit of mouths to feed.

A century ago, 6.5 million farmers were responsible for feeding Americans. Today, only 2.1 million farmers are responsible for feeding 319 million Americans.

These facts help us realize our large role in agriculture.

In agriculture, sustainability is the production of food using farm techniques that protect the environment, public health and human/animal welfare which then provides healthy food without compromising future generations’ ability to do the same. This method not only provides adequate food for the current demand but also ensures adequate resources for future food production. Choosing to consume food from sustainable agriculture can lead to a healthy and thriving local community and a more balanced ecosystem. A trend in the culinary world called “farm to table” is focused on consuming food made with locally grown ingredients from sustainable agriculture. Many restaurant in our area are growing in popularity due to their commitment as being labeled a “farm to table eatery.” Our society often compromises health and nutrition for convenience foods (fast food, TV dinners); however, the “farm to table” trend provides more nutritious and more environmentally friendly foods. Buying local food, that doesn’t have to travel long distances, is grown to taste better but is also grown to support local farms and small economies, which are responsible for feeding our population.

What can we do? We can take stock on our current eating habits and slowly incorporate the following tips to get started towards sustainable eating:

Shop locally. Local farmers are committed to their communities. Farmers, at your local market, are likely a neighbor of yours and spending money at the market will keep your money local.

Grow something. Whether it’s herbs in a small pot or a plot in your yard but a great appreciation is realized when we understand the multitude of factors involved in growing food. This insight may influence how we buy and use food.

Eat in season. Strawberries don’t grow in North Carolina in December, yet we can still buy them “fresh” as they are likely transported here from far away. When possible, purchasing local foods that are available in season will help support sustainability.

Vote with your wallet and fork. We can show support, for sustainable agriculture, through our buying choices. If everyone spent money on local food, not only would food stay in our community but could also limit fossil fuels used when transporting produce across state borders and could encourage optimal nutrition, for everyone, by consuming more nutrient dense foods.

 

We are involved in agriculture through the consumption of food! What we prepare in our kitchen and how we eat each day impacts our health and economy. If we all work towards supporting sustainable agriculture, we can reap many benefits.

Ashley Corbett, MS, RD, LDN, is a registered dietitian with Vidant Wellness Center and Vidant Beaufort Hospital.