Foods that are found in local area are being consumed preferably nowadays. A few advantages caused by this in the environment and economy could be increase in local biodiversity and support to the local farmers whereas unmet nutritional demand and reduction in trade opportunities can be the downfall of this trend.
When the consumption rate of locally produced food is increased, the demand for diversity of vegetables and fruits also increases significantly. So, local farmers start growing varieties of edibles than they used to grow before. This biodiversity flourishes the environment by reducing the need for harmful practices like using heavy pesticide and fertilizer. Similarly, local farmers are more likely to be supported with this trend. If the demand for locally produced food is increased, the supply rate through farmers also increases which leads to a rise in the local economy. For example, Nepal being an agricultural country, the major source of income for people is farming.
However, it is not possible for farmers to grow every kind of nutriment in single area due to change in season as well as soil quality throughout the year. This might cause deficiency in certain aspect of diet among individuals. Likewise, there will also be large possibility of decline in trading of food within or outside the country. This decline in food commercial disrupts the country’s economy.
In conclusion, absorbing locally produced food largely affects the environment and economy. Local biodiversity increment and local farmers aid are the merits although insufficient nutrition availability and reduced trade market are the demerits of the trend.