Overview

The basics of sustainable food and socially responsible eating

As communities develop safe, sustainable food systems, they can improve the environment, support the local economy, and enhance the nutrition of their members. As a member of your community, you can support this effort in many ways:

Participate in community groups that increase your community’s food security and self-sufficiency.
Help your community take action using the growing array of tools and resources readily available through regional and national organizations and groups.
Support local farmers by buying from farmers markets or subscribing to community supported agriculture (CSA) programs.
Learn how to read food labels so that you know how your food was grown and what it contains.
Make purchasing decisions that support sustainable agriculture every time you go to the grocery store.

Communities everywhere are supporting healthy food production methods that do not harm the environment, respect workers, are humane to animals, and provide fair wages to farmers and their communities.

To learn more about sustainable agriculture and its terms, see Sustainable Table’s dictionary.

To learn how to find healthy food while supporting your local community, see the following pages:

Community Food Security & Food Access
Learn why everyone should have access to safe, affordable, and nutritionally adequate food.

Community Action Tools & Resources
Locate tools and resources to empower your community.

Finding Healthy Food
Find local farmers, CSAs, and markets where food is fresh and local.

Food Terms and Labels
Break down the complexities of food labels and understand what you’re eating.

Tips for Grocery Shopping
Shop like a pro during your next visit to the local grocery store.