We're just wrapping up our first growing season here and as autumn takes hold, I'm finding myself with some much needed time for reflection on the past year. A recurring theme for us, and other new farmers has been determining and communicating the value of the food we produce. This has been as much of a learning curve for us as it has been for our customers and I expect that it is something that will continue to develop. One thing that is clear though is that the value of locally, organically produced food extends far beyond the nutritional value of the end product.
Many consumers expect local food to cost less due to reduced shipping costs and are surprised to find that it often costs more than the same, imported product. The fact is, however, that production costs are inversely proportional to the scale of the farming operation and its proximity to urban centres. Some argue that this proves that small scale organic farming is inefficient but this only holds true if one disregards the TRUE costs associated with large scale agriculture. While these hidden costs and subsidies are not passed on at the point of sale, they are costs that we all pay for, making this type of production both environmentally and economically unsustainable.
The environmental cost of factory farms is tremendous. Herbicides, pesticides and animal waste are running off into water systems causing oxygen-depleting algae booms, destroying ecosystems and killing aquatic species. Irrigation practices are depleting aquifers faster than they can be replenished. The use of herbicides and pesticides produces resistant strains of weeds and insects which then require more and more chemicals in order to control them. The health of farm workers and nearby communities are at risk due to exposure to these toxins. Industrial farming is extremely fossil fuel intensive at all levels of production, contributing to air pollution, ozone depletion and global warming which has direct impacts on agriculture through climate events like droughts and flooding. Genetically modified crops are in 80% of all processed food products on the market today and in spite of shocking scientific evidence of associated health risks, this industry continues to be unregulated.
Many of the products we see in supermarkets today have been imported from countries with questionable human rights and environmental records. I can't help but wonder how it is possible to buy a banana from Central America for less than the price of postage. Someone is picking up the tab for that cheap tropical treat.
A 22-year study out of Cornell University concluded that organic farming produced the same, or better yields than industrial farming but used 30 percent less energy, less water and no pesticides. On top of the environmental cost, one must also factor in the cost of the hefty subsidies many factory farms receive which contribute to the low cost of their products. This makes it impossible for small scale farms to compete unless consumers come to terms with the true costs of food production.
Whenever a customer balks at the price of our produce, I gently remind them that if they want to enjoy a delicious salad that wasn't sprayed with pesticides, they're going to have to buy some greens for the slugs too. And if they want produce that was picked fresh this morning and didn't travel up to 2000 km to get here, it is going to have to be produced on land valued at close to 7 million dollars an acre.
Local, organic food is more nutritious too! Most of the 'fresh produce' at the supermarket was harvested early before it was really ripe, then stored and shipped thousands of kilometres, arriving at your local store days or weeks later. Local produce can often be harvested and consumed the very same day allowing for natural ripening and higher nutritional content. Organic produce contains forty percent more anti-oxidants and is significantly richer in vitamin C, iron, magnesium, phosphorus and other micronutrients. Organic animal products are higher in polyunsaturated fatty acids and pasture raised meat tends to be leaner. Less processing and fewer stops from field to plate also decreases the risk of contamination. Conventional produce often has levels of pesticide residue considered high enough to be harmful to children. Buying organic eliminates this risk.
Supporting small scale local farmers also supports your local economy. The vast majority of farm expenditures are made locally and because this type of farming is more labour intensive, it provides more employment, further contributing to the health of the local economy.
The percentage of household income Canadians spend on food is among the lowest in the world. If food security is important to you, then you need to vote with your wallet. There is no need to wait for the government to enact legislation to restrict or control the use of toxic chemicals or the genetic manipulation of our food supply. You can vote for a more sustainable food system today when you choose to pay the true cost for healthier, ethical, environmentally and economically responsible food. Just stop buying products that are not in line with your personal values. It really is that simple.
So when you buy a bunch of carrots at your local farmers market or through one of the increasing number of Community Supported Agriculture programs, remember that you are buying more than carrots. You're buying health, protecting our air, water and ecosystems, preserving precious top soil, supporting your local economy, creating jobs, building community and participating in a movement towards a more sustainable way of life for all of us.
Sidebar: What is Community Supported Agriculture?
- C.S.A. is gaining popularity with consumers who want to purchase fresh, seasonal food from local farmers. Customers buy a 'share' of the farm's harvest at the beginning of the season which provides the farmer with the capital they need for purchasing seeds, equipment, soil amendments, etc. In return, customers receive a weekly box which typically contains produce but may also contain other farm products such as honey, meat, eggs, flowers etc. Many participating farms offer additional benefits to their C.S.A. Members including community events and education. To learn more about C.S.A. and for a list of farms offering shares, please visit: http://www.urbandigsfarm.com/csa.html
About the author:
Julia Smith is an urban farmer and local food advocate farming on the west side of Vancouver at Urban Digs Farm. For more info about Julia, the farm, and local foody news and events, please visit: www.urbandigsfarm.com
