Local Food FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

• What is "Eating Locally"?

• Why should I buy local food?

• How can I support a local food system?

• Where can I buy local food in the Caledon area?

What is Eating Locally?

Eating Locally means to eat food that is grown/produced by local farmers. It also means to eat food that is processed locally by local food processors (e.g. bakeries, dairies, butchers, breweries, wineries).

Here in Caledon, there are numerous opportunities to purchase and eat local food (see listing of local farmers & producers). When Eating Locally, try to prioritize your food choices in the following manner:

1st choice: Food that is produced and/or processed within Caledon boundaries.

2^nd choice: Food that is produced and/or processed within Ontario.

Why Should I Buy Local Food?

Here are some key reasons why you might prefer local food:

• Local food is fresher, more nutritious and tastier - primarily because it takes less time to travel between the farm and the consumer

• Local food requires less additives and packaging - again primarily because of shorter travel times. e.g. fruit and produce can be picked closer to their full ripeness and delivered to the consumer with less risk of spoilage.

• Buying local food supports local farmers thereby contributing to a strong rural economy and the preservation of farmland.

• Ontario food is produced to some of the highest food safety standards in the world.

• Buying local food reduces transportation-related pollution. e.g. greenhouse gas emissions.

How Can I Support a Local Food System?

Supporting a local system contributes to a stronger rural economy but for the consumer it also ensures the food purchased is the freshest, healthiest and tastiest possible. You can ensure you get the greatest value for your food dollar by:

• Visiting local farmers and u-picks for local fruits, vegetables and herbs.

• Buying eggs, meats and fish from local sources.

• Joining a local CSA (Community Supported Agriculture) to receive a weekly supply of seasonal produce.

• Asking your local grocer and favourite restaurant about what local foods they carry (this gives them greater incentive to carry what their customers are most interested in).

• Planting a garden and eating produce from your own backyard.

• Preserving local fruit and/or produce by freezing, canning or drying to eat later in the year.
   

Where Can I Buy Local Food in the Caledon Area?

There is a growing list of local farms and producers. Check back often to see the updated list.