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What "local" really means in your grocery store!

This winter, Wal-Mart announced their plans to bring more local produce to their stores across the United States. The announcement is perhaps one of the most visible indications that the local food movement has hit the mainstream, as it gains followers for both economic and environmental reasons. Yet it is necessary to approach such an announcement with a dose of skepticism when it comes from a company that seems to be driven so heavily by the bottom line.

Some have criticized Wal-Mart’s new policy to promote local food as little more than a marketing ploy, and have accused the company of re-labeling products they already procure locally. However, in a recent Wall Street Journal article, Wal-Mart said that consumer demand for local produce is aligned with the company’s cost-savings objectives. Wal-Mart, like many other national chains, says that they can save money on transportation by purchasing food near the point of sale, which also reduces food spoilage. In a press release, the company announced that they hope to source up to nine percent of all produce locally.

Many grocery stores also tout their local produce, although the definition of “local” depends on the store. Take a look at how some of the major grocery chains define local produce:

• A&P: Produce grown in New York or New Jersey.
• Kroger (and subsidiaries): Produce grown in the same state or region as the store.
• Safeway: Produce within an eight hour drive
• Sweetbay Super Market: Produce grown within the state.
• Publix: Produce from the five states in which the stores are located (Florida, Georgia, Tennessee, South Carolina and Alabama).
• Walmart: Fruits and vegetables grown in the same state in which they are sold. All other produce is deemed local if grown within 450 miles of a Wal-Mart distribution center.
• Whole Foods: Defines local foods as anything that has traveled less than 7 hours by car or truck.
• Wegmans: Produce grown within the state.

To read more about the local food movement, click here

Recipe of the Month:

Fresh Cucumber and Tomato Salad

Yield: 6 servings

Prep time: 15 minutes

Cooking time: N/A

Ingredients:

• 2 large cucumbers, peeled, seeded and sliced
• 2 fresh tomatoes, diced
• 2 Tbs. red wine vinegar
• 2 Tbs. extra virgin olive oil
• 1/4 C. red onions, sliced very thin
• 1/2 C. fresh mint leaves, chopped

Directions

1. Combine all ingredients in a serving bowl and mix well
2. Serve immediately

In the News...

A few years ago, the US government put forth a regulation requiring food manufacturers to list the top 7 allergens on the labels of all foods. But sometimes, food manufacturers make mistakes. Earlier this month, The Christie Cookie Company recalled several of its cookie gift tins because the company failed to list potential allergens on the food label, including eggs, soy lecithin, wheat and milk. Please be aware that the following cookie gift tins contain eggs, soy lecithin, wheat and milk: Item # 1035 DoubleTree 6 (13.5 oz) Cookie Gift Tin. Item # 10352 DoubleTree Anniversary Special containing two 6 Cookie Gift Tins (27 oz.). Item # 1037 DoubleTree 12 (27 oz.) Cookie Gift Tin. Item # 1038 DoubleTree 15 (33.75 oz.) Cookie Gift Tin Item # 1039 DoubleTree 24 (54 oz.) Cookie Gift Tin. To learn more visit: FDA Recalls

Giving Back

Rachel had a wish on her 9th birthday--instead of gifts, she asked family and friends to donate to Charity Water to help fund fresh water for those very much in need. Her goal was to donate $300. After a fatal car accident, Rachel’s wish and message lives on. Thus far, one million dollars have been raised for Charity Water in Rachel’s name.

You can start your own Charity Water campaign and rally your friends and family to make your next birthday or any celebration focused on helping others. No dream is too big. Start your own fundraiser project!

Action Items

Find out what “local” means at your grocery store and try to purchase local produce when possible. You will be eating healthier produce, and improving the health of our planet. Let’s build on Rachel’s wish to help others! Maybe your next birthday or celebration will feature a donation in lieu of gifts or a donation component of some sort. Best of luck! Check out the DietsinReview.com blog for the latest in health and fitness.

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