Where Do You Buy Your Food?

I have often heard that we are what we eat. When our schedules get very busy, it becomes harder to plan a healthy meal. It is even more difficult to know what to buy and where to buy it from especially when we are presented with so many new choices. For most immigrants, it is important to live on a budget while working on settling in a new country. Here are some options to consider that can help you eat healthy and stay on budget. They may also help you make some new friends.

Join a local Food co-op or a buying club - These are organizations that look for the best value in healthy foods for their members. They pool their dollars to shop for the best deal and members pay an annual membership fee. Most co-ops keep their costs down because they are run by volunteer members and open only at specific times.  To learn more about food Co-ops or find one in your area click here. 

Shop at the Farmers Market - Farmers markets are run by local farmers who sell their produce in the market. The greatest benefit of a farmers market is getting fresh produce all year round and also having access to a variety of foods because most produce is seasonal. You can order fresh milk or meat at some markets and pick it up at a later time. It is a also a great way to find out what grows well in your area. Click here to find one in your area. 

Join a Community Supported Agriculture(CSA) Group - This concept is similar to a food co-op except that the produce is from a local farm. Co-ops focus on getting the best value for their members. In CSA's farmers offer shares to the public; when you purchase the shares, you are guaranteed a box of fresh produce every week or every other week. The only catch is you may not know what you will get every week (as opposed to farmers markets and co-ops where you pick what you want to buy). This is a great way to learn how to cook new foods. Joining a CSA amounts to making a promise to buy seasonal food. Most CSA's offer a convenient delivery service of the produce to their members. Places that experience harsh winters may only have CSA's in the summer. Click here to learn more and find some in your area. 

Grow your Own Food - If you find gardening therapeutic, it is a great way to relax and create healthy food options for you and your family. Most vegetables and herbs can be grown on a patio or a backyard. Click here to get some tips on gardening in your backyard. Local fresh food stores may also have some tips about what to grow and how to grow it. It is a great way to build a community of people who share your values.