Home making
Balancing locally produced vs Fairtrade from afar
Hi Janey
I'm trying really hard to buy locally or at least buy British. It's easier at this time of year as our fruit and veg comes into season, but I can't live without bananas or coffee. In those cases I buy Fairtrade whenever I can. Is it OK to support Fairtrade regardless of the food miles? And what about soapnuts? I haven't tried them yet as I'm not sure about the miles they've travelled. What do you think?
- maidup
You're so right - we do have to consider it. I've just been supporting a new company who make eco-friendly cleaning products but it seems their stuff is flown from the States! However as the title of my book says, I'm imperfect so I'm afraid I can't be holier than thou on anything. I do drink fairly traded coffee and eat organic bananas. I am also proud to be 'queen of soapnuts!' Yes they've travelled a good few miles but they're a renewable resource and can be chucked on the compost when they've been used a few times.
Janey
Janey Lee Grace presents the Saturday Early Breakfast Show on BBC Radio 2 and is author of Imperfectly Natural Woman, which focuses on natural eco-friendly living
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