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Nowadays, food lovers are becoming increasingly conscious not only about healthy cooking but also about food production and sourcing methods.
They are more aware of the environmental issues associated with food choices.
To further this movement and achieve the Sustainable Development Goals, the United Nations has designated 18th June as Sustainable Gastronomy Day.
The decision acknowledges gastronomy as “a cultural expression related to the natural and cultural diversity of the world”.
What is sustainable gastronomy?
So what exactly is sustainable gastronomy and how does the United Nations define it?
Gastronomy is sometimes called the art of food.
It can also refer to a style of cooking from a particular region. Sustainability is the idea that something (e.g. agriculture, fishing, or even preparation of food) is done in a way that is not wasteful of our natural resources and can be continued into the future without being detrimental to our environment or health.
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Sustainable gastronomy, therefore, means cuisine that takes into account where the ingredients are from, how the food is grown, and how it gets to our markets and eventually to our plates.
It is an idea that food is prepared in a way that does not harm our environment, is not wasteful of natural resources, and has roots in our culture and local traditions.
The reason Sustainable Gastronomy Day is observed is to create awareness of the impact of sustainable choices on the environment and economies.
How can we as consumers make a difference?
According to the UN, by 2050 the world will have over 9 billion mouths to feed. Yet one-third of all food produced is lost or wasted.
We are using our oceans, forests, and soils in largely unsustainable ways to achieve further industrialisation.
We need to be more careful about how we use our natural resources, and we need to be pickier about how we choose our food.
So how can you support sustainable gastronomy?
Adopting sustainable gastronomy practices is a conscious choice that consumers can make to contribute to environmental preservation and support local economies. Support the farmers, try local foods during your travels, keep culinary traditions alive, avoid food wastage, and be local in your choices.
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Here are several ways consumers can follow sustainable gastronomy practices:
Support local farmers
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- Purchase locally grown produce and products to support nearby farmers.
- Visit farmers’ markets and community-supported agriculture (CSA) programs to connect directly with local producers.
- Buying locally grown products means that there is a demand for them and this helps farmers maintain their livelihoods.
Choose seasonal ingredients
- Opt for seasonal fruits, vegetables, and other ingredients to reduce the environmental impact of out-of-season produce.
- Seasonal foods are often fresher, tastier, and have a lower carbon footprint.
- By being open to locally grown foods and eating what is in season, you can help shift the buying patterns of local businesses, like restaurants and hotels, and support the area’s fishers and farmers.
Minimise food waste
- Plan meals carefully to minimise leftovers and reduce food waste.
- Use creative ways to repurpose food scraps, such as composting or making broths.
Choose sustainable seafood
- Choose seafood that is sustainably sourced and certified by reputable organisations.
- Be informed about overfishing and endangered species, and avoid purchasing products that contribute to these issues.
Reduce meat consumption
- Explore plant-based and meatless meal options to reduce the environmental impact of meat production.
- When choosing meat, opt for sustainably raised and ethically sourced products.
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Choose eco-friendly packaging
- Support restaurants and food businesses that prioritise eco-friendly and sustainable packaging.
- Bring reusable containers for takeout to reduce single-use plastic waste.
Eat at sustainable restaurants
- Choose restaurants that prioritise local, seasonal, and sustainably sourced ingredients.
- Look for establishments with eco-friendly practices, such as recycling and energy-efficient measures.
Learn about food labels
- Familiarise yourself with eco-labels and certifications that indicate sustainable and ethical practices.
- Labels such as Fair Trade, Organic, and Rainforest Alliance can guide environmentally conscious choices.
Practice mindful eating
- Be mindful of portion sizes to avoid over-ordering and reduce food waste.
- Slow down and savor your meals, appreciating the flavors and ingredients.
Participate in community initiatives
- Join local community gardens or initiatives that promote sustainable agriculture.
- Attend events that highlight sustainable food practices and connect with like-minded individuals.
Final thoughts
Sustainable gastronomy helps to boost an area’s economy, support its farmers, and reduce the greenhouse gases and resources used in transporting food.
Sustainable gastronomy is not only a way forward to preserve our planet and its rich flora and fauna for future generations to conserve our biodiversity, but it is also a healthier way of life, given the fact that our generation battles with various lifestyle diseases.
Sustainable gastronomy could be a potential game-changer for the economic, social, and environmental sustainability of communities and regions.
It can play in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals, including promoting agricultural development, food security, nutrition, sustainable food production, and the conservation of biodiversity.
References:
https://www.un.org/en/observances/sustainable-gastronomy-day
