Why Buying Local Food is Always a Smart Choice (Not Just Because of Tariffs)
If you’ve been following the news lately, you’ve probably heard plenty about the recent tariffs imposed between Canada and the U.S. Predictably, the conversation around ‘buying Canadian’ has surged, with many framing it as a patriotic duty. But while the current trade landscape is certainly sparking renewed interest in supporting local farmers, the truth is, buying local produce has always been the smarter choice—tariffs or not.
It’s easy to get caught up in the economic and political angles of the debate, but let’s put that aside for a moment. Beyond trade policies and national pride, there are compelling everyday reasons to choose locally grown, in-season produce whenever possible. From superior nutrition to environmental sustainability and support for the local economy, eating local is a decision that benefits everyone—including you.
Fresher, More Nutritious, and Better Tasting
One of the most overlooked advantages of local produce is its nutritional superiority. The moment a fruit or vegetable is harvested, it begins to lose nutrients. This process is inevitable, but how long produce spends in transit makes a huge difference.
When you buy local, you’re often getting produce that was picked within the last 24-48 hours. Compare that to an organic apple shipped from halfway around the world, which was likely picked weeks (or even months) ago and stored under artificial conditions to prolong its shelf life. By the time it reaches your grocery cart, it has lost a significant amount of its original nutrient content.
And while organic farming has its benefits, an imported organic tomato that’s been sitting in cold storage for weeks will never match the flavour, texture, or nutritional profile of a locally grown, just-picked tomato. If you’ve ever eaten a sun-warmed BC strawberry in peak season versus a bland, off-season import, you know exactly what we mean.
A More Sustainable Choice for the Environment
The ‘food miles’ concept—how far food travels from farm to table—is another important factor. Transporting produce thousands of kilometres requires fossil fuels, increases greenhouse gas emissions, and contributes to environmental degradation. Buying local dramatically reduces the carbon footprint of your food, making it a more sustainable option.
Additionally, many small-scale local farms use sustainable growing practices, even if they’re not certified organic. Large-scale organic farms in other countries still rely on industrial farming techniques, which can be just as damaging to soil health and biodiversity as conventional farming. Local, small-batch farming often means better land stewardship, fewer harmful chemicals, and a lower environmental impact overall.
Supporting Local Farmers and Strengthening the Economy
Every dollar spent on local food helps keep farmers in business, strengthens the local economy, and ensures the future of regional agriculture. When you buy from a farmers’ market or a local grocery store that prioritizes BC-grown produce, that money stays in the community. It supports jobs, helps farms remain viable, and allows for continued investment in sustainable agriculture.
Contrast that with imported produce from large multinational suppliers. A significant portion of the cost you pay goes to middlemen, transport logistics, and corporate overhead—none of which directly benefits your local economy.
Seasonal Eating: A Natural Guide to Better Health
Eating with the seasons is how humans have traditionally consumed food for millennia. Seasonal produce is naturally aligned with our nutritional needs: leafy greens and root vegetables thrive in cooler months when we need hearty, nutrient-dense meals, while berries, stone fruits, and fresh herbs flourish in the warmer seasons when lighter, refreshing foods are ideal.
That said, there are some foods—like citrus fruits, avocados, bananas, and other tropical produce—that simply aren’t grown locally. If those are foods you enjoy, it’s worth considering whether they are an occasional treat or a staple in your diet. While there’s nothing wrong with including non-local foods, it’s helpful to be mindful of the trade-offs, particularly in terms of environmental and economic impact. Choosing to buy local where possible allows for a balance between enjoying variety and supporting sustainability.
BC’s Local Meats, Dairy, and Seafood Matter Too
While fresh produce often gets the spotlight, BC is also home to an abundance of high-quality local proteins. The province is a major producer of poultry, pork, eggs, dairy, and seafood, all of which are widely available through local farmers' markets, specialty grocers, and even some major grocery chains.
Poultry & Eggs: BC farms supply a large portion of Canada’s poultry and egg production. Locally raised chicken, turkey, and free-range eggs are not only fresher but often come from farms with higher welfare standards than large-scale industrial operations.
Pork: BC produces excellent-quality pork, with many small and medium-sized farms offering ethically raised options free from added hormones.
Dairy: BC’s dairy industry provides fresh milk, cheese, and yogurt, often from smaller, family-run operations that emphasize sustainability and animal welfare.
Seafood: Thanks to BC’s extensive coastline, locally caught wild salmon, halibut, shellfish, and other seafood options are among the best in the world. Choosing locally sourced seafood supports responsible fisheries and reduces the carbon footprint associated with imported seafood.
Beef, on the other hand, is not as widely produced in BC. However, Canadian beef—primarily from Alberta—is among the best in the world and is widely available. Opting for Canadian-raised beef over imported options is another way to support local farmers and reduce the environmental impact of long-distance food transportation.
Where to Buy Local, In-Season Produce in BC
If you’re in BC, you’re in luck—our province is home to some of the best local produce in Canada. Here are some great sources to explore:
Lepp Farm Market – A family-run market in Abbotsford offering a wide range of locally grown fruits and vegetables, along with farm-raised meats. Visit Lepp Farm Market
Abbotsford Farm & Country Market – A fantastic option for fresh, in-season produce directly from local farmers. Market opens for the season on May 3 this year! Visit AFCM
Meridian Farm Market – A great place to find locally sourced produce and sustainably raised meats. Visit Meridian Farm Market
Choices Market – A BC-based grocer known for its commitment to local and organic food. Visit Choices Market
SPUD (Small Potatoes Urban Delivery) – Offers home delivery of local produce in BC’s Lower Mainland, Vancouver Island, and even select areas in Alberta and the U.S. Visit SPUD
Farm Folk City Folk’s Seasonal Growing Charts – A handy resource for knowing what’s in season in BC. Check it out here
Make It Work for You
While it may not always be possible to buy 100% local, making even a few small changes can have a meaningful impact. Start by incorporating more locally grown produce into your grocery list, exploring farmers’ markets, or signing up for a local food delivery service.
Ultimately, buying local isn’t just about tariffs or politics—it’s about making choices that support your health, your community, and the environment. The more we prioritize fresh, in-season, locally sourced foods, the better off we all are.
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