1. Choose Free-Range

There are many animal welfare issues that surround the production of meat and eggs. If you want to take a step towards eating ethically, choose free-range products or buy certified organic meat.

2. Go Meat-Free

You don’t have to give up meat altogether start eating ethically. Simply going without meat for a day can contribute to a positive environmental impact. ‘Meat-free Monday’ is a popular project, and one that can easily be adopted by us all.

3. Buy Locally

These days food is often shipped from one side of the world to the other to meet supply and demand. However, all this travel uses a lot of fuel that can contribute to our carbon footprint. Eat ethically by buying food grown locally, like from farmer’s markets.

4. Buy Seasonally

Eating fruits and vegetables that are in season can be a big step in eating ethically. Produce that is out of season is often transported in from elsewhere, meaning that a lot of miles and fuel is involved in getting that food onto your plate. Buy produce that is in season and grown locally.

5. Choose Fairtrade

Products like chocolate, coffee, and tea often come from countries with loose workplace laws. This means that workers are often treated unfairly by the big companies. The Fairtrade initiative gives workers and growers a chance to receive a fair price for their products. Research the trade practices of companies and buy Fairtrade products where you can.

6. Eat What You Need

Over-consumption is a big problem these days and can lead to food wastage. Instead of a big grocery shop once a week, buy according to your needs. Stock up on non-perishable items, and buy perishable items such as fruit and vegetables as required to prevent wastage.

7. Limit Processed Foods

From the energy expended in making the foods to the packaging that we end up throwing away, processed foods such as soft drinks and cereals can have a hugely negative impact on the environment. Eat ethically by swapping processed foods for more wholesome alternatives.

8. Sustainable Seafood

Eating ethically is often an issue of sustainability. The world’s oceans are notoriously over-exploited so next time you’re thinking about stocking up on seafood, make sure they’re regional varieties and farmed from sustainable sources.

As you can see, eating ethically can have an impact on people, animals, and the environment. Do you eat ethically? If so, what are your best tips for doing so?

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