More than ingredients: our approach to sourcing
We know you love us for our clean ingredients. Thanks!
Did you know it's about more than just the ingredient listed? If we want to positively impact our health and our communities with our food choices, it's just as much about the "how" as the "what."
We all think our food system has some problems. Our number one gripe - the "root cause" of many of these issues, if you will - comes from our commodification of the crops that form the core of our diets (and societies). The most produced crops in our country, contributing to a variety of environmental and health issues, are corn, soybeans, and wheat. But we don't actually eat much of that corn or soy (much of it goes to animal feed and ethanol production). That brings us to wheat.
If we really want to have a positive impact - pay farmers and workers fairly for the work and effort they put into their crops, protect and regenerate our croplands, restore biodiversity, feed ourselves and our communities more nourishing, healthy food - we must think about how we source the single food source feeding us the largest proportion of our calories!
[this is all AI right now, based on the following prompt:
this blog is about how we need to not just care what the ingredients are but HOW the ingredients were produced. Not all flour, eggs, spices, or produce are created equally. They require different inputs -- all with potential to make our world and environment a better or worse place.]
Have you ever stopped to think about where your food comes from? It's not just about the ingredients listed on the label, but also about how those ingredients were sourced. The way our food is produced can have a significant impact on the environment, our health, and the well-being of communities around the world.
Environmental Impact
When it comes to sourcing ingredients, not all methods are created equal. Conventional farming practices often rely on synthetic pesticides and fertilizers that can harm the soil, water, and surrounding ecosystems. In contrast, organic and sustainable farming methods prioritize soil health, biodiversity, and conservation. By choosing products made with responsibly sourced ingredients, you can help reduce the environmental footprint of your meals.
Community Support
Behind every ingredient is a network of farmers, producers, and workers who make it possible. By supporting products with transparent and ethical sourcing practices, you can help ensure fair wages, safe working conditions, and sustainable livelihoods for those involved in the production process. Your choices as a consumer can make a real difference in the lives of people around the world.
Quality and Taste
Believe it or not, the way ingredients are sourced can also impact the quality and taste of the final product. Fresh, locally sourced ingredients often have more flavor and nutrients compared to their mass-produced counterparts. By choosing products with high-quality sourcing standards, you can elevate the taste of your meals and support a more sustainable food system.
Health and Well-being
When you prioritize responsibly sourced ingredients, you're not just benefiting the planet – you're also looking out for your own health. Organic and sustainably sourced foods are less likely to contain harmful chemicals and additives, making them a healthier choice for you and your family. By being mindful of sourcing practices, you can nourish your body while also supporting a more sustainable food system.
Next time you're shopping for groceries or dining out, take a moment to consider the sourcing behind the products you choose. Your decisions as a consumer have the power to shape the future of food production and consumption. By opting for products with transparent and ethical sourcing practices, you can make a positive impact on the environment, communities, and your own well-being. Remember, it's not just about the ingredients – it's about where they come from and the story behind them.