Rethinking Our Food Systems – From the Ground Up! 

Climate-friendly foods are a crucial part of our Purpose: to protect and restore the environment. By reducing greenhouse gas emissions, conserving water, and preserving land, these foods contribute to the sustainability of our planet. Embracing organic options minimizes carbon footprints. When we choose climate-friendly foods, we actively combat climate change and foster biodiversity. Together, we can make a positive impact through conscious cooking.

Low-Carbon Footprint Foods

The carbon footprint of food is determined by various factors, including agricultural practices, land use, energy inputs, and processing. By giving preference to low-carbon footprint foods, you can make conscious food choices that combat climate change. 

Here are some foods in the top categories that have less greenhouse gas emissions- factoring from seed to harvest.

Nuts

nuts in a group

Fruits

fruits

Vegetables

vegetables

Vegetables

vegetables

Look for these signs that highlight low-carbon footprint items within different food groups!

Low Carbon Footprint

Alternative Grains

See below for some alternative grains that are more adaptable and less resource intensive than many go-to grains. The flavor profiles are nutty, mild, and earthy. Consider using these as delicious flour, porridge or rice swap options!
bowl of Amaranth

Amaranth

Amaranth is efficient at fixing carbon in high-temperature/low-moisture environments, allowing it to adapt to a wide range of growing conditions and do well in a variety of elevations.

  • High yields & grows quickly
  • Easily harvested & processed
  • Tolerant to drought conditions and a wide range of soil types

Fonio

Fonio requires very little water and grows incredibly quickly.

  • Well suited to hot climates with unpredictable weather
  • Resistant to droughts due to highly developed root system
  • Matures quickly

Sorghum

Also known as “The King of Millets”, Sorghum is a hardy grain known for its low water consumption and climate resiliency.

  • Drought & heat tolerant
  • Nitrogen efficient
Millet in a bowl

Millet

One of the hardiest and most resilient crops humans can plant. It grows very quickly compared to other grains. While most grains can take 6 months to mature,  millet is ready to eat in just 60 days.

  • Drought-resistant
  • Requires little water to produce
  • Resistant to pests and disease
Teff in a bowl with a spoon

Teff

Teff is as resilient as it is versatile. The grain thrives during droughts but can also grow well if the soil is waterlogged.

  • Adaptable to a wide range of climates
  • Tolerant in both drought and waterlogged conditions