Starbucks makes me a pioneer just by drinking their coffee. Recycled cups, 10% post consumer waste, free trade coffee. Somehow I am the hero consumer, spending money for the good of all.
I suppose that I would have to take this notion further, much further and examine our current state of crisis within the world wide food production and distribution system. Having recently read The Omnivore's Dilemma by Michael Pollan and upon watching The Future of Food and Food Inc. and following a burgeoning “Go Local” movement in Austin, I am keenly aware of the bargain sale price of 2 for $4 blueberries in February at my local health food store may not be such a bargain after all. I first become excited at the price and snatch up 4 boxes for my breakfast fruit bowl. My excitement turns sour as I note that they are from Chile and I begin to add up the transportation cost of finding these ripe berries on the shelf. I am almost certain that the sale price of these particular blueberries this week does not begin to cover the full amount of the production and transportation costs of this box of blueberries. Cheap prices are the hook, as I reach for food that is not in my particular seasonal growing cycle. It is really hard to put them down because I love blueberries and they are filled with those helpful antioxidants. Next week when they will be at their full price of $3.99 a box, I will not be having this dilemma.
So, today I am headed to the local Farmer's Market where I get to see the variety of foods that are in season for my particular growing cycle. I am lucky to live in a region that supports fall and winter gardens. Personally, this is my favorite growing season. I am already on my second rotation with peas, lettuce and herbs. We have been lucky this winter because we have seen lots of rain and I have not had to resort to using city water to help my plants grow.
Farmer's Markets are at the heart of the answer to the food crisis as each individual begins to become aware of the part they play as a consumer. Buy from your local source or learn how you can grow your own.
Check out these websites or find your own answers to the question, “Just because it is there, do we really need it.......now?”
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