Earth Day Eating

Today is Earth Day ,a day dedicated to saving the planet.Foodies can get involved too simply by changing their diets.Anyone can cut down on his or her carbon footprint.It's a version of guilt free eating but it not only helps you but all living things on the planet. One of the biggest and most considerate ways is going vegan or semi vegan.It takes a lot of energy to raise animals for slaughter and eating.The farms take up electrical and water power to raise poultry, fish and cattle.Plants do not,only relying on compost, air and water. Also try to buy products made and grown in your area instead of selecting foodstuffs from other countries or distant parts of the US,Canada or Mexico.Many fruits and veggies are either from South America or even Hawaii or Mexico.A good way of reducing your carbon footprint is buying from local farms or farmer's markets(these are just starting their season).The products are varied ,from honey to cakes and cheeses to produce.This last is also organic and you don't have to worry about them being sprayed with pesticides.Learn to eat seasonally as well.Instead of snacking on strawberries in the fall or winter, try local fruits such as apples or pears. Foodie's can also emulate their favorite celebs by going to restaurants and even bakeries that feature locally grown and produced ingredients.This is also called the fork to table or farm to table movement and it's firmly entrenched in trendy food forward New York City.This is where chefs get their produce and meats from local farms and butchers.Some restaurants such as Natirar in Bedminster, New Jersey has a farm where its chefs can pick out the best fruits and vegetables for their nightly menus.They even have livestock too so diners can enjoy free range chicken and veal.This is perfect in the late spring ,summer and fall however it can pose some problems come winter.Chefs then rely on pickled or canned goods to create sides and desserts.Anyone can create their own locavore table at home simply by planting a comprehensive garden.It not only helps the environment but gets families to eat healthier. Versatile veggies such as tomatoes and peppers can be planted and used in variety of ways.Strawberries and melons can also be planted and enjoyed for two months.Fruit trees take some time to bear fruit however once they mature ,there will be bountiful harvests.To keep the fresh taste, can or jar your produce.You'll be able to enjoy string beans or peaches well into November and December. Change tour diet and change the world. Be mindful of your carbon footprint.Buy locally,eat at restaurants that feature locavore dining.These small gestures add up to the big one of saving Mother Earth.