Why Buy Local
Why Local Produce?
In recent years like many rural areas, the mainly agricultural area of Moyle has felt increased economic pressure. Farming in particular faces difficult competition from the global food market and changing consumer preferences. However, there is now a growing trend where people are asking where the food on their plate comes from and are starting to demand locally produced food.
There are many benefits to be gained from using local produce as an alternative to mass-produced, imported goods. By buying ‘local’ we directly support and encourage our local rural economy; help create a greater sense of pride in our community and our capabilities; we benefit the environment by reducing the number of ‘food miles’ and transport emissions; and with the increased use of fresh produce everyday, we all move towards enjoying healthier lifestyles.
Reducing ‘Food Miles’
Food is travelling further than ever before, often hundreds of miles from where it was produced to where it is consumed. As we learn more about the vast distances some food travels to reach our tables, most of us are becoming concerned about the increased amount of air, sea and road freight required to meet such demand. The air pollution that is being generated as a consequence is a danger to both our natural environment and our health. We can help overcome this by demanding local, seasonal produce.
It’s better for you
If an item of food has travelled great distances to reach your table, the chances are that it could be days (or in some cases) even weeks old. By the time much of this well-travelled produce is used, the vitamin and mineral content has diminished. Fresh local produce has the advantage of travelling from field to plate in the shortest time possible – therefore retaining all its healthy benefits.
The Menu of Moyle project is funded by
Moyle District Council's Economic Development Programme
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