Avoiding Supermarkets - is it time to get back to basics?

Posted by: Kris

15th May 2011 10:59pm

Having worked at one of Australia's supermarket giants as a teen I was disturbed by the lack of quality in the logistic processes, the in-store handling, and the concept of imports on fresh produce. It astounded me that produce from my local region was sent more than 1000 kilometres away to go through logistics to then be sent all the way back.

As I've grown older and moved out of home this has become an important issue, considering the current price wars, and the hurt that is occurring to the 'Aussie' farmer.

This lead me to turn away from the supermarkets and seek out green grocers and markets. Recently I have also been introduced to the concept of home delivered fruit and vegetable boxes. A company in my area does just this, with a mission to source locally and within season.

Obtaining my fruit and vegetables in this manner has reminded me of the stories my mother would tell me of all the home delivery options, from the bakery van, and the milk man and the at the gate buys from farmers.

I want to know if my journey in seeking out alternatives to the supermarkets is unique? Are we moving back to a community based model of living from era's gone by? Are you finding difficulty in obtaining an alternative or are you happy with the service of supermarkets?

wabbit

22nd Nov 2011 10:32pm

I think that what u r doing is great - I found myself disappointed with produce so often that I started off visiting gardener's markets and the central market in Adelaide, but have now been planting/growing and eating my own produce for a couple of years now and enjoy the taste, price effectiveness (once set up) and the beauty of being able to walk out the back door at the last minute to pick what i want to have with any of my meals..........I also know that alot of community housing ventures create their own veggie pathces and thrive from those as well, so good luck to you and believe in whatever you choose to do

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