Eating sustainably anytime of the year is easy for us Vancouverites because of the vast variety of locally grown produce available. During the holiday months we can enjoy fruits such as apples and pears and vegetables such as squash and brussel sprouts. You can see a complete list of locally available produce by going to the Get Local BC website.
Other ways to eat more sustainably is to eat less meat and incorporate
more vegetable and legumes into your diet, as well as choose "green
list" (sustainable) seafood choices.
Which is a more eco-friendly decision; purchasing foods that are local or foods that are organic?
The answer to this question is still up for debate, but the
conclusion that we at Park Royal have come to is that they are both
great. When purchasing local produce or locally made food products
you're helping to eliminate the carbon emissions that would have been
used in the shipping process. You're also supporting your local farms
and businesses, which in turn helps to create a more sustainable
economy. When you purchase organic products you are helping to
eliminate the negative environmental impact created by the pesticides
and fertilizers used in the growing of those products. Best case
scenario; buy local organic or just do your best by choosing one of the
two options.
Quick tips
* Take some time to familiarize yourself with the local produce and
food products that are available at your regular grocery or produce
store. Having the knowledge will help you create menus and inspire you
to get creative with your meal planning.
* Don't get frustrated if everything you need to purchase isn't local
and/or organic, just do what you can. If half of the food or produce
you purchase is local and/or organic, you're doing 50% better than you
were before.
* A great way to enjoy the locally available produce is by picking it
yourself. Plan a family day vegetable picking at the many farms located
in and around Vancouver and the Lower Mainland.
Check out these stores at Park Royal to find everything you need for sustainable food purchasing:
Whole Foods is considered the Mecca for sustainable grocery shopping. Extra Foods also carries a large variety of local and/or organic foods. Shoppers Drug Mart carries their own line of organic food products. Also, the Market at Park Royal offers a wide selection of locally sourced products offered to you by locally owned businesses. Kins Farm Market offers their customers a variety of sustainable produce options. Finally, Les Amis du Fromage offers one of the largest varieties of local BC cheeses.
