In today’s fast-paced world, it’s easy to overlook the path our food takes. Every step in that journey — from traveling long distances, passing through many hands and sitting on shelves — has an impact on us and the environment. Prioritizing whole, minimally processed foods and being mindful of how they’re produced makes a big difference.
“Sustainable eating encourages us to slow down and become more conscious of where our food comes from,” says Elizabeth Kuntz, a nutritional therapy practitioner in Delray Beach.
Sustainable foods include plant-based options like fruits, vegetables, whole grains, nuts and legumes. Animal products in this category are ones that are raised without antibiotics, growth hormones or confined factory farming practices. For instance, grass-fed, pasture-raised beef is a sustainable option that respects the animal, consumer and land.
Ways To Eat More Sustainably:
Adopt A Plant-Based Diet
A plant-based diet is packed with vitamins, minerals, antioxidants and fiber, which support heart health, steady blood sugar and healthy digestion. An easy way to begin is with Meatless Monday — a popular trend promoting skipping meat one day a week to boost your health and lighten your environmental footprint.
Plan Your Meals
Think ahead so you buy only what you need and make the most of every ingredient. Choose recipes that use multiple cuts of the same protein — like chicken wings and breasts — and prioritize using fresh produce before reaching for pantry staples. Skip store-bought dressings, marinades and sauces, which are often high in added calories, sodium and sugars. Freeze leftovers to reduce waste; that way you’ll have quick, healthy meals on hand instead, to avoid the temptation of ordering takeout.
Eat Locally
Buy produce at farmers markets and local farms. Typically, locally grown food is more nutritious, since it’s harvested at peak ripeness and doesn’t travel far. Reducing food miles decreases greenhouse gas emissions, packaging waste and refrigeration energy.
Grow Your Own Food
Planting your own produce lets you know exactly where it comes from and how it was grown.
“Growing food deepens your connection to nature, your health and your food system,” says Kuntz. “Even small steps — like growing herbs on a windowsill — can have a meaningful impact.”
Join A CSA
With a community-supported agriculture (CSA) program, a farm offers “shares” — a membership or subscription — to the public. In return, you’ll receive a box, bag or basket of vegetables and maybe even eggs, chicken, pork, homemade bread, cheese, milk, fruit or flowers.
“Joining a CSA is a great way to enjoy fresh, local and seasonal produce while supporting nearby farms,” says Kuntz. “It introduces you to new foods you may not buy at the supermarket. Plus, you get high-quality food and a closer connection to the people growing it.”