And what about Local? Or Sustainable?

Support your local farmers and farmers’ markets, but be sure to inquire about their farming practices. Do they use synthetic pesticides and fertilizers? If so, how often and what kinds? Do the synthetic pesticides and fertilizers run off into a local water source? How much pasture time do their animals receive? What exactly do your farmers mean when they say their cheese is made from “natural” milk?

Bottom line–ask questions and get educated! Unfortunately, “small” and “local” usually does not mean organic, pesticide-free, or even GMO-free.

Often local farmers may be following organic farming practices, but they have yet to become certified because of the cost of certification and paperwork, the size of their farm, reduced growing time, or other reasons.

Remember, just like “natural,” there are no formal definitions “sustainable”  farming or food, nor enforceable standards. Use your best judgment and take a look at the whole picture–synthetic chemical use, farm labor and management, animal welfare, and the environmental footprint of how the food was grown and how far it travels.