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Monday, January 10, 2011

Food: A Series of Reflections Pt.3

This weekend I did some exploration. I dropped by my local Safeway with a full stomach for the purpose of looking at the marketing, packaging, and value of food. When you become desensitized or hungry, key details seem to slip past you. I evaluated various food items based on some of the following questions:

1) What is the nutrient value of the product? Is it good for me?
2) How eco-friendly is the packaging? How could it be better? How does the packaging make the product look healthy?
3) Where is the product made and distributed?
4) What image is the product trying to project?
5) Are there corn or soy ingredients in the product? 

One particular example of packaging that was completely unnecessary was a package of four russet potatoes on a foam tray wrapped in plastic for $2.99. What a waste of resources! Another interesting thing to note was that many "natural" products were packaged in recycled cardboard with simple labeling or in bags that where matte rather than shiny in order to provide a more rustic look.

If shoppers where to go into the store and ask themselves these questions there might be a shift in purchasing. The carbon footprint of an item that was distributed 12 states away or imported is far different than an item that was produced and distributed in state. Packaging in paper, glass, and tin is far more environmentally responsible than plastic. In season produce that does not come from Mexico or South America is more responsible both environmentally and economically as it supports US farmers.

Consider these questions the next time you shop.

Happy Monday

-CCosner

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