Eating local means enjoying more locally grown produce and other foods from farmers and producers in your community. Several benefits come from eating local food, including environmental, economic, social, and health benefits. Here are five fantastic benefits of eating local.

1. Local Food Is Very Fresh: Food that’s grown or produced in your community isn’t imported from distant states or countries like a lot of supermarket items. This means that local food, especially produce, is often extremely fresh and tastes better than nonlocal items.

2. Eating Local Is An Opportunity To Try New Foods: If you shop at farmers markets or local food co-ops, you’ll likely be introduced to a new or unique food that’s grown in your area. Discovering these items is an excellent way to learn more about the food history and agricultural practices of your community. You may even find a new favorite food or ingredient.

3. Purchasing Local Food Benefits The Environment: Local foods yield less pollution and waste due to their minimal or complete lack of packaging, processing, and transportation. Supporting local farmers who implement sustainable techniques also benefits the environment. Supporting local farmers and food purveyors supports the environment.

4. Eating Local Supports Your Regional Economy: When you buy local food, your money is likely to continue to circulate within the local economy. Local businesses not only provide jobs for community members but also their owners and employees are more likely to cycle their incomes back into other local stores and institutions — further reinforcing the regional economy.

5. Eating Local Teaches You How Your Food Is Grown: Building relationships with those who grow your food is a great way to build community. At the same time, you can ask questions and learn about farming practices. Such connections may help you develop a deeper appreciation for your food.

IN A NUTSHELL: Eating local doesn’t just benefit your health and the farmers in your community. It also has a host of positive economic, social, and environmental effects. Local foods tend to taste fresher, have more nutrients, and use less packaging. Supporting local food businesses leads to strong local economies.