I eat, therefore… we are!
“It’s certainly true that nowadays, you really have to pay attention to what you eat…” Between recommendations for the preservation of the environment, the good of our health, animal welfare, the local economy, etc., it’s hard to know what to think! The choice of food products has never been greater, and yet it has never been so complicated just to buy a tomato.
Well, what if we went back to basics to rediscover together the joys of healthy, guilt-free food that is a pleasure to purchase? Within the territory of Scarpe-Escaut Regional Nature Park, a large number of producers will be delighted to reintroduce you to this highly enjoyable approach to food. | |
| Local, seasonal products… Tastier and with a lower carbon footprint, seasonal fruit and vegetables are packed with nutritional and environmental qualities. To recognise seasonal produce, be sure to download your calendar! (link) Consuming local produce means taking an interest in the place of production of our food. This approach is only beneficial to the environment if the logistic organisation is efficient. Above all, its main advantage is that it supports the local, non-outsourceable economy, which benefits employment in our regions and promotes local heritage and expertise.
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 | … But why choose short-circuit produce? Legally, “short-circuit” selling involves no more than one middleman between the producer and consumer. But its overall philosophy involves more than just that! It is an approach which is beneficial to all: producers and consumers agree on a fairer price, and share their knowledge of the produce, their recipe ideas, and their needs. They get to know and understand each other better, they make plans together, and the entire local area benefits, since short-circuit selling facilitates the development of a sustainable economy which genuinely works in people’s interests, based around small and medium-sized businesses, which create both employment and social interaction. |
| Finally, when you consume local, seasonal and short-circuit produce, the entire transaction is being conducted in your immediate vicinity! But isn’t it a little complicated to meet all those criteria at the same time? Whether they’re found at a farmers’ market, in a producer’s shop, or straight from the farm, most products are local and seasonal, and the prices are fair for the producers and consumers alike! It is also easier to find organically-produced items, and you can gradually become more and more involved. No more reading the small print on all those labels, all you need is a little bit of knowledge, and you can let the producers be your guide. So… tempted? Come and get it! | |
