Are you aware of the food carbon footprint concept? Unknown to many, sustainable food consumption habits play a vital role in climatic changes. In a bid to safeguard the climate, the UK Health Alliance recently called for a food carbon tax. It is to be levied on all food producers with regards to the carbon footprint of their respective products and services. Various companies took it upon themselves to digitize services that initially brought crowds together. A good example is the NetBet online casino, which understands the importance of being eco-friendly and that even small changes can make a big difference to the planet. They are committed to working with green energy source partners in a bid to reduce the environmental impact of their business.
Today, we take a look at foods you can delve in to reduce food carbon print. Let’s dive in.
What is Food Carbon Footprint?
Emissions from food production can be grouped into four categories: growing, raising, farming, processing, transporting, storing and cooking. Disposing of food results in a great deal of waste that can lead to the emission of greenhouse gases. It is a commonly heard term but less understood by many.
Causes of Food Carbon Footprint
In the UK, food is among the largest contributor to its carbon footprints (circa 1/3). It occurs as a result of various stages in the cycle of foodstuffs:
- Production
- Processing
- Transportation
- Storage and cooking
- Waste.
Each stage has a unique impact on a food’s carbon footprint.
So, let’s get to it.
- Organic Strawberries
Along with other seasonal berries, strawberries are great for you. Their fibered nature and antioxidants make them way healthier. At their optimum, strawberries can take the place of a fine sugary treat. They may come in the form of a dessert, salad or snack extras. Their sweet smell means they are ripe and ready for consumption.
Strawberries contain circa 300 grams of CO2 emissions per kilogram of food which is ideal for both human consumption and the planet’s survival.
2. Beans
For individuals on a budget, beans are a great option. Purchase them in bulk; dried and packed. At the groceries, you can get an entire pound of organic beans for only £2. Their versatile nature allows them to be included in soups, salad and dips. They add scores of proteins to just about any meal.
According to a European research agricultural report, beans save up to 600 kilograms of carbon dioxide per acre when replacing fertilizers. They come in different varieties leaving consumers spoilt for choice. If you are trying to cushion the planet and your wallet, beans are the answer.
3. Organic Tofu
For products like tofu, there is no much difference in prices between organic and non-organic products. By estimates, people could do away with billions of pounds of carbon from the atmosphere by naturally planting all they soy and corn. Tofu is affordable and a good source of protein.
4. Organic Rolled Oats
I don’t know about you but, usually, I have rolled oats next to my breakfasts. Not only do they fill your tummy but also versatile as you can add almost anything to them. I’m in love with the raw honey, cinnamon and dried fruits.
Also, they are cheap, about £1 per pound. With a food carbon footprint of 240 grams of carbon dioxide per pound, oats are ideal for the planet and life.
5. Potatoes
For centuries, potatoes have rooted their tuber nature in the expanding dietary collection. Potatoes are cheap, available for longer seasons and also come in unlimited varieties.
They produce close to 650 grams of carbon dioxide emissions per kilogram of food. If you have potatoes instead of steak, you would be reducing food emissions by 20 times.
6. Homemade Bread
Cooking your meals at home instead of buying plays a role in cutting costs and reducing the food carbon footprint. For instance, baking your bread is way cheap and does not entail packaging and transportation costs. For some reason, home-baked bread tastes way better than bread from the store; the smell that fills your home is enough to get your day started.
The food emissions for a full wheat bread is roughly 750 grams of carbon dioxide per kilogram. Once your loaf is ready, do not layer it with a slice of beef as you will be beating your efforts. Try some homemade peanut butter.
7. Homemade Almond Milk
As compared to cow milk, it is loaded with lots of antioxidants and fewer calories. You can fix it in between breakfasts, coffee and smoothies. It can get pricey.
Making almond milk at home saves yourself and the planet from packaging and the hassle of getting the same milk from the store. As more people continue to learn more about plant-based meals, it is also wise to regulate your daily dairy intake.
In a nutshell, there are numerous ways to keep your food carbon footprint in check; from switching to plant-based meals to prioritizing seasonally grown produce. Often ask yourself where your food comes from and the sequence food processing methods involved. The answer could help lower your food carbon footprint and also protect the planet.
