Imported Organic vs Local Conventional at Whole Foods
Slate Magazine points out in a recent article on Whole Foods that "Let's say you live in New York City and want to buy a pound of tomatoes in season. Say you can choose between conventionally grown New Jersey tomatoes or organic ones grown in Chile. Of course, the New Jersey tomatoes will be cheaper. They will also almost certainly be fresher, having traveled a fraction of the distance. But which is the more eco-conscious choice? In terms of energy savings, there's no contest: Just think of the fossil fuels expended getting those organic tomatoes from Chile. Which brings us to the question: [given the variables of] freshness, price, and energy conservation, should a New Yorker just instinctively choose organic, even if the produce comes from Chile?"
So pretend you live in the Big Apple. What would your choice be?
Comments
Well, on my one trip to NY, I found this amazing Amish market, where I could buy locally grown organic produce. That said, your question is the personal vs. the global: what takes priority - personal health (organic) or global health (buying locally)? I would probably go organic, just because of personal health, but you make a great point about the other costs associated with global commerce.
Posted by: Tyler | March 21, 2006 01:04 PM
My first choice is always local AND organic if available. My second choice would be LOCAL! As part of a farming family, local here to Ventura County, I see it as kind of like the common bumper sticker says, "Think Globally, Act Locally." If everybody bought local to them wouldn't we be acting globally? I choose to support the local farmers around me in this county.
Posted by: Sarah | March 21, 2006 04:42 PM
I also choose to buy local AND organic, or grow my own! It is better for the planet and our personal health to be concious of chosing foods in season. Two examples recent examples come to mind when I think about table grapes and avocados. A couple of months ago, in the stores in Ventura County, there were avocaods and grapes available. Both products were clearly labelled, "Grown in Chile". We grow tons of avos. and grapes in California. One needs to ask the question..."why is this produce being brought in from Chile?" and "do I have to have them now, can I wait a few months to enjoy California-grown avos. and grapes when they naturally ripen?" Buying in season is a choice we can all make.
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