By Jean Welch Hill–
As Thanksgiving weekend comes to a close and we continue to enjoy the leftovers from our dinners, we might also begin to think seriously about the sourcing of our food. As Catholics, we believe in the dignity of work and the worker. We are challenged to think deeply about where our meals come from, and about who is impacted by our decisions.
Especially around Thanksgiving and the Holidays, we are asked to consider where our food comes from. Last week, in Sanpete County, a viral video showed disturbing conditions at a Moroni turkey farm. Many of the birds were sick or injured, living in filthy conditions and generally suffering. We cannot condone this kind of treatment of animals, nor would we want to source our food from a corporation that acts this irresponsibly. As we prepare for Christmas and the holiday season, we might begin to think more carefully about ethical food sources. This month, try to choose local grass-fed meat, or buy directly from local farmers or markets. The same guidelines can apply to fruits and vegetables. When we buy from local sources, we are supporting Utah farmers and our local economy.
In addition to ethical sourcing, many who care for creation advocate for reducing meat intake altogether. On an environmental level, livestock production ( http://science.time.com/2013/12/16/the-triple-whopper-environmental-impact-of-global-meat-production/ )uses about 30% of our fresh water and contributes heavily to carbon dioxide production. In North America, a cow consumes between 75 to 300 kg of dry matter in order to produce just 1 kg of protein. Beef also has a much higher water footprint than other forms of meat; pigs and poultry, on the other hand, account for only about 10% of livestock greenhouse gas emissions. By reducing our meat intake, or simply relying more on pork and poultry, we can decrease our water usage and avoid contributing as much to global warming.
Across the country, many people follow the guidelines of Meatless Mondays (or simply continue with the Meatless Fridays of Lent throughout the year). Eating less meat throughout the week will help the environment and quite possibly improve your health!
