Localize takes the work out of eating responsibly

Editor:

Since I wrote the celebrated piece “Organic Foods Grossly Overrated” I have become aware of a new useful development to aid the consumer in the task of making better food choices similar to the ones I recommended; not necessarily organic, check the source, buy local and eat seasonally. I came across the article in the 2016 Jan-Feb issue of Canadian Geographic magazine.

The Alberta company, Localize, was founded by Megan Dear, who working with consumers, producers, and grocery stores has developed a labelling system that scores the product you wish to buy based on; production – where it is made, ingredients – what went into it, ownership – who did the making, and sustainability – how it was done, to generating over a million data points, with a  maximum score of 10. You just scan the label’s QR code with your cell phone and presto, the product info and the score appear, allowing you to make the informed decision for you and your family. The labels are in over 300 stores and on over 15,000 products in western Canada and they’re moving east.

The biggest problem with my suggestions is the time and effort for an individual consumer to check the criteria, except for the obviously local season items it’s very difficult and as I mentioned some of the product labelling is intentionally misleading.

Localize presently has only six stores in Ontario but I can only hope it becomes more widespread even commonplace. Localize does all the research for you and your family, so check it out at www.localizeyourfood.com.

P.S. That special seasonal treat I mentioned, the Red Prince apple from Thornbury has now arrived at Foodland in Creemore and Giffen’s Country Market in Glen Huron. Picked in September it has been maturing like a fine wine for some four months and now they’re ready to be savoured, They’re a delight, and they didn’t burn much diesel getting here.

Al Clarke,

Mulmur.