Globally, food production and agriculture account for a significant share of greenhouse gas emissions; the UN states, “About a third of all human-caused greenhouse gas emissions are linked to food.”
Locally and seasonally sourced produce is often considered more sustainable for our health and the environment. But that is not always the case. A major factor in environmental impact is production methods, including land and water use.
Food miles
Food miles are the distance food travels from production to consumption, measured in tonne-kilometres: the distance travelled multiplied by the mass of the transported food item.
Transport options
Firstly, let’s look at air freight. Very little food is actually moved by air. Air freight accounts for less than 1% of food miles and is only used for highly perishable goods. When food is moved by air, the emissions can be very high – 50 times more CO2eq than a boat per tonne-kilometre.
Most foods assumed to be moved by air are actually transported by boat. In fact, nearly 60% of all food miles are due to foods transported by boat.
Research shows transport accounts for 6% of emissions across the food supply chain. While that is not a huge amount, cutting food miles can certainly go some way toward reducing environmental impact.
So why should we use locally sourced ingredients?
A shorter, more local supply chain can help the environment, and honestly it needs all the help it can get at the moment. But there are additional reasons to buy local.
Freshness
Food gets to plates more quickly, so it tastes better and retains more nutrients. Plus, it can last longer in your fridges and pantries, helping you plan menus.
Community
It supports local farmers and businesses, can create local jobs and invests in regional economies.
Resilience
Shorter supply chains help during global trade disruptions
SALSA
Four Seasons Fruiterers has received the Safe and Local Supplier Approval for Brokers, Storage & Distribution Approval, meaning we can demonstrate compliance with the SALSA Standard for warehousing and storage, picking and delivery of fresh fruit and vegetables, bread, dairy, eggs, dry goods, frozen items and charcuterie.
Whether a supply chain is local or global, Four Seasons Fruiterers delivers the best in ambient, chilled, frozen, and fresh produce to professional kitchens from Exeter to Surrey, and from Bournemouth to Birmingham.