Think Global: Eat Local

Peppers at the Farmers Market, originally uploaded by alltrain43.

Almost every town has a local farmers market these days. Not only are they a great place to meet people and learn about foods, but buying locally grown produce is smart for three reasons:

First of all…you're saving the planet! Most of the produce you buy at the grocery store is shipped an average of 1500 miles, contributing to oil dependence and creating pollution.

Second, you're supporting local business! Only 18 cents of every dollar you spend on groceries goes to the grower. The rest goes to middlemen. Support local and family-owned farms who are striving to keep high quality organic produce available to the public. Smaller farms tend to be more environmentally friendly with less strain on air, water, and soil.

Third: It's healthy! Locally grown produce doesn't spend days or even weeks in trucks. It is fresher and contains less preservatives. Local produce can also help you build up immunities to seasonal allergies.

For more information on how you can eat locally take the 100 Mile Challenge!