Why Eating Local Helps Both Your Health and Economy
Opting for local food is a great way to support your country’s economy – this idea immediately comes to mind! When pursuing an MBA, we were taught that standardization reduces product costs while customization can be pricier!
When it comes to food, customization can increase costs for standardized items. Sound confusing? Let me explain.
For example, at McDonald’s, if you request extra cheese on your burger, your bill increases along with your calorie intake. Similarly, ordering a Domino’s pizza with Cheeseburst crust or extra toppings costs more. These are instances where customization comes at a premium. However, this is not the case with local food!
On occasions when I had to grab lunch at the office cafeteria due to not being able to cook, I once paid for a full meal but requested fewer items from the vendor. Surprisingly, he offered to refund half the amount as I had only taken a portion of the meal. This showcases how customization can actually make local food more affordable, and healthier too. My intention was not to save money but to avoid gaining extra pounds.
When my cravings get the best of me, I often opt for customization. For instance, I ask the street vendor not to add potatoes in my panipuri or skip sev in my bhel. The best part? This customization doesn’t come with an additional cost!
Another benefit of eating local food is that it encourages seasonal eating. By consuming fruits and vegetables in their respective seasons, you align your diet with nature. This means you’re not relying on produce that has been stored for long periods or treated with preservatives.
