Whether you aim to be more environmentally or health-conscious, look for locally sourced foods when you go grocery shopping or dine out at restaurants. Local ingredients benefit you and the environment for a win-win all around.

Why You Should Eat Locally Sourced Food

1. Enjoy Better Taste

Locally sourced foods are likely to be fresher and healthier because of the short distance from the farm to the customer. The ingredients don’t lose the strength of their nutrients and are less likely to spoil. Locally grown foods also tend to be seasonal, so you’re eating the freshest produce of the land. 

2. Support the Local Economy

When you buy food from farms, markets, or restaurants that use local ingredients, you’re directly supporting your city’s economy instead of chain supermarkets and corporations. You’ll help farmers stay in business, assist in creating jobs for people in the community, and keep your dollars local.

3. Make Less of an Environmental Impact

Buying and eating local food is eco-friendly. Less travel time results in a smaller carbon footprint and helps decrease waste from food spoilage during long transportation from farm to plate. You also support environmentally oriented farmers who use sustainable farming methods to promote biodiversity, soil health, and water conservation. 

4. Build Community

Knowing who grows local ingredients, transports them, or prepares them gives you insight into where your food comes from. You’ll gain a new appreciation for the process, especially when you can put a face to it. In the same way, food producers get to see who they’re feeding, bringing the seller and consumer closer together. Forming a connection with a vendor at a farmer’s market or a restaurant you visit regularly makes your support more personal and the food taste better.

If you’re searching for delicious locally sourced foods and organic ingredients, head to Heavenly Island Lifestyle in Waikiki, HI. This healthy restaurant proudly serves dishes made with local ingredients for breakfast, lunch, and dinner as well as a variety of smoothies and cocktails. Call (808) 923-1100 to make a reservation, or visit their website to view their colorful and mouthwatering menu.