Eat Local in 2011

With the New Year, comes a New Year’s resolution. In my case, my resolution is to live a healthier lifestyle. I realize resolving to live a healthier lifestyle is a resolution with many facets. The most obvious way to live a healthier lifestyle is to eat better. After doing some research, it occurred to me that the easiest way to achieve this goal is through a diet full of local foods. 

According to Men’s Health Magazine, “local produce from small purveyors is generally fresher. Research from Iowa State University shows that while a local Iowa apple travels only 61 miles, a conventional supermarket apple travels 1,726 miles.”( Click Here for the Full Article)

The USDA reports that in 2009 6,132 farmers markets operated in the U.S.. By buying local foods, you are eating healthier foods and supporting U.S. farmers. To me, this looks like a win-win situation to me. So, this year, resolve to live healthier by eating local. 

Visit the USDA website to find a farmer's market near you.

Some Advice for the New Year

In keeping with this week’s New Year’s Resolution theme, I have some food for thought.

In the upcoming year, think about your purchases. Don’t just buy with abandon. Look at labels. If you are unsure of a products origin, call the manufacturer. Asking where a product you are about to buy comes from is a legitimate question.

Also, if you find a retailer is not supplying enough products that are Made in the USA, speak up. For instance, next time you are at Wal-Mart, let customer service know that you want more American products. If you the consumer doesn’t speak up, retailers will continue to infiltrate our shelves with products made in China.

Take a stand in 2011 and demand domestically manufactured products. 

Two Thumbs Up, New Balance!

New Year’s Day is rearing its head. With the New Year, comes New Year’s resolutions. According to USA.gov, popular resolutions include “Get Fit” and “Loose Weight.” For me, getting inspired to work out sometimes involves a new pair of sneakers.

Click here to visit New Balance's website

When sneaker shopping, consider buying a pair of New Balance sneakers from the USA Collection.

Although the entire New Balance line is not manufactured domestically, the shoe manufacturer clearly labels its shoes. New Balance distinguishes between Made in the USA and Assembled in the USA. If the Domestic Value of the shoe is greater than 70%, the show is “Made in the USA.”

Thank you New Balance for providing consumers who care with the information they need to make buying decisions.

For more information on New Balance’s USA Collection, please visit  www.shopnewbalance.com