Did you know that a large majority of immigrants will acquire the eating habits of the native population? This can lead to poor health outcomes, as healthy traditional food practices are often replaced with poor local habits.
Today’s blog focuses on encouraging local nutritiously sound choices. A popular trend in food right now is the “local” movement. And rightfully so! Local foods are not only nutritious, but have a positive impact on communities as well.
The positive impact of choosing local foods:
- It supports our communities through the creation of jobs and economic growth.Preserves our environment as food does not travel as far.
- It is fresher and more nutritious.
How do you know if a food is local, and where can it be found?
- Look for Foodland Ontario logo when at the grocery store.
- Visit local farmers markets and farms.
Farmers Markets are a fun way to engage with the community and connect with local farmers. Here, you can buy farm-fresh produce directly from the person who produced it. Listed below are some of the markets available in London:
1712 Dundas Street London, Ontario(519) 659-8725 Ext 228
Saturday: 9:00am – 5:00pm
Sunday: 9:00am – 5:00pm
130 King Street London, Ontario
(519) 439-3921
900 King London, Ontario
519-667-1010
Saturday 7:00am to 3:00pm
5856 Colonel Talbot Rd London, Ontario
519-652-5551
4370 Dundas St. East London, Ontario
(519) 268-3840
Saturday: 7:00am – 5:00pm
Another great option for access to local food is to get involved in community shared agriculture farms (CSA). Here farmers receive a set fee from the consumer and in return the consumer receives shares of the farmer’s produce. This is a great way to become involved in the community and receive quality produce for often below retail prices. For more information visit, http://csafarms.ca/
Foodland Ontario is another great resource for learning about local fruits and vegetables, meat, eggs, and dairy. They also do a great job of highlighting the importance of seasonal foods, which will be discussed in the next blog. Stay Tuned!
Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/Nutrition4uMPH
instagram: ”http://instagram.com/nutrition4ulondon?ref=badge”
Sources from:
Foodland Ontario http://www.ontario.ca/foodland/foodland-ontario
Ontario CSA Directory http://csafarms.ca/
Farmers and Flea Markets Canada http://ontario.farmersandfleamarkets.ca/farmers-markets/london
nutrition4ulondon 