The food we consume, whether of plant or animal origin, has an impact on the environment. Therefore, production and consumption require certain care. Seeking sustainable food helps the planet, as well as protecting future generations.
One habit that can harm world development is food waste. According to the report of the United Nations Environment Programme, 17% of the food produced in 2019 globally went to waste, representing 931 tons of food.
Reflecting on this scenario, it is important to put into practice a balanced and sustainable diet. But what foods should we include in the diet to reduce the impact on nature? We’ve drawn up a list of the top options you can add to your day-to-day life. Keep reading!
The food we consume, whether of plant or animal origin, has an impact on the environment.
What foods to include in daily meals?
Before we talk about the options that integrate sustainable food, it is important to reinforce that initial care in food production should give priority to organic production or integrated protection, without the addition of pesticides and other chemical components.
Some elements added to agricultural production end up harming the soil, besides changing the nutrients present in food. Therefore, sustainable consumption begins with the choice of organicly produced fruits and vegetables.
Livestock production also affects the environment. This is because the pasture of the animal depends on large areas that are often opened by deflowering. In this case, it is worth rethinking the origin and frequency of consumption of certain foods we choose.
Discover the options at your disposal for a sustainable and healthy diet!
1. Veggie burger
Veggie burger is great sustainable food alternative.
The veggie burger is an alternative for those who do not want to consume products with animal meat and seek a sustainable diet. These burgers can be made with vegetables and grains instead of meat. The taste is amazing and on top of that it is healthy.
The red meat that make up traditional burgers is not the best option for those looking for a sustainable diet. Livestock production often generates a very negative long-term environmental impact.
At Cheeky Leeks, you’ll find the best and tastiest veggie burgers in Portugal. They are made with selected ingredients and without animal meat. We use dried legumes in bulk, soaked by us and cooked by us. We don’t use canned legumes!! You can order from the usual delivery apps and receive a freshly made meal at your home.
Know the Cheeky Leeks menu and place your order!
2. Organic foods
Organic production is a way to invest in sustainable food. Fruits and vegetables are grown without pesticides and other chemical elements. Thus, there are no negative impacts on the environment.
Insecticides and pesticides used by some farmers to enhance crop development and make them look good can affect their nutritional value.
Therefore, when choosing the products in a supermarket, check the origin and invest in a food with organic options or from local producers.
3. Grains and cereals
Grains and cereals are fundamental in any diet. They are rich in fiber and help in the correct functioning of the body. In addition, they can be consumed in different meals, such as granola and oatmeal, often included in breakfast.
Chickpeas are one of the most popular options in Portugal. It can be consumed for lunch and dinner, as a side dish and even as dessert. This option is rich in fiber and minerals, and also contributes to a healthier and more balanced diet.
What is the importance of sustainable food?
The pillars of sustainable food are the promotion of social well-being and the inclusion of natural components. This is made from the conscious and responsible consumption of available resources. The impact on the environment is always taken into account throughout production.
Vegetables and animal protein are part of meals around the world. When companies are concerned only with the extraction of food, without considering its environmental impact, they end up harming the environment.
Currently climate change and the impact of food production are evaluated by several companies in various parts of the world. However, corrective actions are still reduced when compared to current production levels. It is one of the reasons we are attentive to food, and to the way we acquire our food.
Adopting serious policies on sustainability contributes to the correct use of natural resources and improves the preservation of the environment. However, investing in sustainable food is a way to help future generations.
Read also: How to maintain healthy eating on a day-to-day life?
Also follow our Instagram and follow the news.
