Meghan - 100 Mile Diet Experience recap

How do I recap all that I have learnt through this 100 mile experience…I have been exposed to both the 100 Mile Diet book by Alisa Smith and J.B MacKinnon and the Canadian Food Network's 100 Mile Challenge in the past but only took the information in passing as interesting but something that would not be feasible for me. So this experience was one that I jumped at trying with both feet.  It's funny, the changes that I have made have become so natural and my thinking process, so aware of food issues and the importance of local I can hardly go a day without mentioning it or questioning my choice or others close to me about their food choices. 


I had to go into the a larger supermarket the other day and I just confirmed for myself that no matter how beautified the store layout may be or how they are marketing certain products to me, I am not interested in simply picking up food because it looks good and the price is right. I want to know more and I especially do not want food that can't be recognized as food by my elders. I know I am echoing Michael Pollan here but I really believe this. 


I have been a "real" foodist for the last few years, questioning things that have to be manufactured in order to be eaten or have ingredients that you do not recognize as food or can even be read. But taking on the 100 mile diet has brought into focus first the abundance of food that we have (which I sort of new about but only during the main growing seasons) but also the very important steps of supporting our local economy and protecting our local environment. Having grown up around local apples all my life, I never questioned why you would enjoy apples during their peak seasons only and from where and how long I could get apples, I just knew this and would never go looking for an apple in May and June from another country because I wanted it. So why are other food products not the same because I honestly didn't know enough about them and they were always on the supermarket shelf when I wanted it. 


Eating local has encouraged me to read label more then before (as I would look at ingredients and nutrition information) seeking to understand where the products have come from and honestly choosing products that do not even have labels and packaging.  


Eating local has reconfirmed for me that everything in moderation is okay. As in rich butter and cheeses but if they are "natural" not due to labelling but due to actual content then that is okay for me.


Eating local has encouraged me to beware of what is in season and where I can get it. Building relationships and taking an interest in where our food comes from speaks volumes to understanding both our environment and the role that local food producers play in our economy.


Eating local has highlighted the need to spend money on things you believe in rather then buying what is convenient and accessible. As a student this is probably the hardest part of this challenge because money is not as readily available as it hopefully will be when I am working full time in a profession of my choice. But at the end of the day, I think about how important it is that I put fuel in my body that will enable me to succeed and if that means spending more money then that's a choice I am going to make. Don't get me wrong I have never been a ramen noodle person or kraft dinner eater, I am very fortunate that I have grown up in a family where we prepare food from scratch and eat whole grains, vegetables and fruit religiously. I am lucky that my food pantry and storage cellar have always had canned and fresh frozen food along with ancient grains and legumes that many people are just becoming familiar with, so I know I have a heads up. So I must move forward and encourage others to put their money where their mouth is and buy for your health, for your community and our planet.


I am sure I have missed many things in this reflection but nonetheless I have learnt so much and am very grateful for this experience and being able to share it with all of you.


Eat good food, preferably local and do not forget to taste what you are eating, as food is more then for sustenance it is an experience and one that should be shared.