August & the 100-Mile Diet

If you were to become a “sustainabilist” for one month of the year, I’d suggest you pick August! But before we dive into the good stuff, I should probably define this made up word.

Sustainability is a system (like the food system) that maintains its own viability—in other words it can maintain itself. So, to become a sustainabilist means that you would be trying to live sustainably by making sustainable choices, such as by eating locally.

As the birthplace of the 100-Mile Diet, West Coast consumers know how fortunate we are to have access to local produce year round. Sadly, what we tend to forget is how lucky we are in August. August is the month where local produce is at its peak! Without even trying, consumers can basically eat anything they crave (minus asparagus, brussel sprouts and pumpkins), as it will be sitting in stores supplied by local farmers. So take the challenge, and buy all your produce locally for one month.

If you’re brave enough to accept my challenge, you’ll probably have more berries, stone fruit and leafy greens than you know what to do with in September. Here are some storing tips:

• Berries - Wash first, then freeze in single layer on a tray to prevent them from sticking. After an hour combine in one container.

• Stone fruit (apricots, peaches & nectarines) – Make purees and freeze for smoothies or cook into jams.

• Leafy greens – Wash, dry, and remove stems. Then freeze to be sautéed or added to soups later.

The bottom line is this: becoming a sustainabilist is easy in August, but eating locally into the fall and winter can be a challenge and will take time. In the long run, set yourself up for success by setting small, attainable goals, such as regularly visiting farmers markets or growing your own food.

Everything you do can make a difference!

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