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Healthy Eating
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Food and Nutrition

Sustainable Food Systems

What is a Sustainable Food Sytem? 

Everyone should have access to nutritious, safe, affordable food that fits their culture, dietary needs and preferences. The food system should operate in a way that protects it for future generations. 

A sustainable food system makes sure everyone, now and in the future, has enough nutritious food. It helps the economy, benefits everyone (not just companies) and protects the environment by saving resources and reducing pollution so future generations also have enough food.

A sustainable food system is good for our health in many ways. It makes sure we always have access to safe and nutritious food, which keeps us physically and mentally well. It promotes healthy, stable environments and helps fight climate change so we can live well and continue to have access to nutritious foods. Sustainable food systems also encourage us to connect with nature and our communities, which makes us feel better overall.

From ‘grow it’ to ‘throw it’ and everything in between, our food system includes:

  • Production- the process of growing and harvesting vegetables, fruit, and other produce, as well as raising animals and insects for food production or pollination. 
  • Processing- turning fresh produce, meat, fish and other foods into a form that's ready for sale. 
  • Distribution- the process of transporting and delivering food to food access points. 
  • Access- making sure people can get and eat nutritious food. 
  • Consumption- how we prepare food to eat at home.
  • Waste management- reducing food waste by composting, and recycling of food waste or extra food.
FoodSystem 

It’s important to understand the food system and how it helps us get the nutritious foods we need. The foods we eat can greatly impact the environment and climate change. And in turn, the environment and climate change, have an impact on our food system as well as other factors that influence health and wellbeing. For more information on how climate change and health are linked visit Climahealth.

The food system impacts our society, economy and environment.  Access to food is influenced by our local and global food systems, the built environment and climate change. The Simcoe Muskoka District Health Unit works with partners to promote a sustainable food system and address climate change to reduce its harmful effects on health and wellbeing, and food security. 

For more information:

Call Health Connection at 705-721-7520 or 1-877-721-7520, Monday to Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. or connect with us on our webpage.

 

Food access and availability can be affected by the built environment in our community. The built environment includes the human-made design and layout of the communities in which people live, learn, work and play. It can impact our access to nutritious food, access to physical activity, and connecting with others. 

The built environment is shaped by Provincial, and Municipal plans and policies, which guide how land is used. Check out healthy community design to learn more about building healthy, complete communities.

Making sure the food system is sustainable in our local community has many benefits for everyone in Simcoe and Muskoka. Some examples include:

Environmental Benefits

  • Reduced carbon footprint: Less transportation can mean lower greenhouse gas emissions.
  • Biodiversity preservation: Smaller farms can protect ecosystems and genetic diversity.
  • Resource conservation: Sustainable methods use fewer chemicals and less water, preserving natural resources.

Economic Benefits

  • Support for the local economy: Buying local can support farmers and businesses.
  • Job creation: the local food system provides local jobs.
  • Economic strength: Diversifying food sources shields communities from economic shocks.

Health Benefits

  • Access to fresh, seasonal food: Locally grown produce is harvested at peak ripeness.
  • Reduced exposure to chemicals: Sustainable practices can use less pesticides and herbicides.

Social Benefits

  • Community building: Connect with producers and neighbours, fostering trust and community spirit.
  • Food security: Depend less on distant sources, strengthening local food networks.
  • Education and awareness: Learn about sustainable food systems/practices.

Cultural Benefits

  • Culinary traditions: Celebrate regional cuisine, preserving cultural heritage.
  • Connection to land and food: Support local producers and strengthen community ties.

Community food security is when all people at all times have access to sufficient, safe, and nutritious food that meets their food preferences and dietary needs for an active and healthy lifestyle.

At a community level, food security is achieved through a local sustainable food system that allows for community self-reliance, social justice, and equal access for everyone.

Food access and availability in Simcoe Muskoka are affected by climate change. Rising temperatures and extreme weather, affect all parts of the food system (from production to accessing and preparing our foods). This can lead to shortages of food, and higher prices and make it harder for some communities to get the food they need. These impacts can harm food security and safety, which are important for health and wellbeing.

The food system also influences climate change. Greenhouse gases from the food system contribute to climate change. This is already affecting the wellbeing of individuals in Simcoe Muskoka, especially those who face existing health inequities.

Luckily, local and sustainable food systems can reduce greenhouse gas emissions and fight climate change (climate mitigation). They also help us to deal with the impacts of climate change (climate adaptation). Efforts are being made at all levels to support sustainable food systems. Individuals can have a positive impact, too! Visit our food and the environment webpage for more information on choosing foods that promote human health, healthy environments, and sustainable food systems.

External Links
Simcoe County Food Charter
Simcoe County Food Council
Food Share Community Food Programs
Simcoe County Farm Fresh AgriTourism Map
Food Matters Action Kit


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