Farm to table seems to be a fad these days. But, although local food has become increasingly trendy, there is way more to it than simple popularity. Buying local foods is incredibly beneficial on many levels. Here’s why:
It’s Frickin’ Cheap
Photo courtesy of UGArden
Let’s be real. Money is one of the main things driving a college student’s anxiety levels. Local veggies can cost less than half of what you’re used to spending at the grocery store (even Trader Joe’s).
UGA’s UGArden club even sells stress-relieving tea for $2 a bag. We’re talking local herbs, grown and dried all in the same place. You can’t find a better deal than that.
It Tastes Way Better
Photo courtesy of UGArden
If you have never had a fresh salad using spinach and lettuce picked that day, you’re missing out. Don’t even get me started on locally grown tomatoes; you’ll want to stop buying them at the grocery store all together. Fresh veggies are almost a different species than imported. You’re buying things that are in season and at their prime.
You Can Learn to Cook with Variety
Photo courtesy of UGArden
Buying local really expands the variety of produce you will choose to try. I’m sure for most of you, cooking with collard greens isn’t something that often crosses your mind, but it can be really easy (proof here).
It’s So, So Good for the Environment
Photo courtesy of UGArden
The environment isn’t in great shape these days, and it’s not getting much better. On average, broccoli travels 2,095 miles to get to your plate. Our country uses so much gas solely for moving produce.
By eliminating this issue and sourcing locally, we can help the environment a tremendous amount. Here’s more on how local produce is better for your environment.
It Builds Community
Photo courtesy of UGArden
Buying fresh vegetables directly from someone you know had a personal hand in producing them is so much more rewarding than a transaction with a cashier. Members of the UGArden club are volunteering on the farm week to week, and then on Thursdays you can find them at the produce stand selling their labors of love.
UGArden also works to distribute most of their produce to the surrounding Athens community through their partner organization Campus Kitchen, which you can learn more about here.
Support your Athens community this Earth Day, Wednesday, April 22 by going to the UGArden spring festival titled South by South Milledge. You’ll learn about sustainability, local farming, and many other important topics. There will be multiple UGA clubs represented, live music and free food (cough Ben and Jerry’s cough). Check out the event here.
Want more on how mouth watering local food can be? Check it out: