Nowadays, protecting the environment and eating healthily are highly discussed topics. Many people are looking for ways to reduce their ecological footprint while ensuring their diet is balanced and beneficial for their health. In light of this concern, the question arises: is it wise to consume imported fruits?
The Benefits of Imported Fruits
A Rainbow of Nutrients
One of the positive aspects of fruits from abroad is that they are just as good for health as those found locally. Imported fruits bring us plenty of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, which are important for a balanced diet (1,2,3,4). Additionally, imported fruits allow us to have access to fresh fruits throughout the year (5).
Diversifying Your Diet All Year Round
Having access to imported fruits opens up a world of new flavours. It encourages us to try new recipes, to be a bit more adventurous in the kitchen, and to spice up our meals. To embark on this culinary adventure, take a look at our exotic recipes. They will make you travel without leaving your home!
- Our chia pudding with tropical fruits is an excellent way to start the day. The chia pudding pairs perfectly with the sweetness and exoticism of tropical fruits, offering a breakfast that is both nourishing and refreshing.
- Our fruit and quinoa salad with lime is ideal as a dessert or snack. It's perfect for a fibre and protein boost while satisfying your sweet tooth.
- For those dreaming of a tropical getaway from the morning, this piña colada-style breakfast bowl is an ideal choice.
The Cons to Consider
The Ecological Footprint of Transport
One of the main downsides of imported fruits is their significant carbon footprint, due to transportation over long distances, often by plane or boat. This consumption contributes significantly to greenhouse gas emissions, which is concerning in the current context of climate change (6).
Impact on Local Economy and Ethical Considerations
Choosing imported fruits can also negatively affect local farmers by reducing the demand for products grown in Canada. Moreover, working conditions in some exporting countries and production methods sometimes raise important ethical questions (7).
Adopting a Balanced Approach
Finding a balance in the consumption of imported fruits involves carefully weighing these pros and cons. Here are some tips for responsible consumption:
Prefer Seasonal Local Fruits
When possible, opt for fruits grown in Canada. This supports the local economy, reduces your carbon footprint, and ensures fresh and tasty fruit (7).
Consciously Choose Imported Fruits
When buying fruits from other countries, try to choose those that come from nearby, like fruits from the United States if you are in Canada. This helps to pollute less because they don't have to travel very far. Transport means like trains or boats are better for the environment than planes.
Also, look for fruits with special labels like:
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Fair Trade: The certification plays a crucial role in ensuring fair working conditions and equitable pay for farmers and workers. (8) The Québec Fair Trade Association recognizes the guarantee systems of these organizations: Small Producers' Symbol, Fair Trade Federation, Fair For Life, Fairtrade, and World Fair Trade Organization.
- Organic: Organic foods are grown without pesticides, herbicides, chemical fertilizers, and GMOs. Organic certification excludes the use of synthetic hormones and preventive antibiotics, and bans synthetic preservatives in processed products. In addition, livestock benefit from appropriate living conditions and space. (9)
Balance Your Shopping Basket
Integrating a mix of local and imported fruits into your diet can be a strategy to diversify your nutritional intake while minimizing your environmental impact. This allows you to enjoy the benefits of exotic fruits while valuing local production.
Consuming imported fruits is not to be prohibited, but it requires reflection and conscious choices to minimize our environmental and social impact while enjoying the nutritional benefits of fruits from around the world.
For a personalized approach that takes into account your nutritional needs and values, feel free to consult a dietitian from TeamNutrition. Together, let's explore the best options for your health and that of our planet.
References
- Liu, Y., Heying, E., & Tanumihardjo, S. A. (2012). History, Global Distribution, and Nutritional Importance of Citrus Fruits. Comprehensive Reviews In Food Science And Food Safety, 11(6), 530‑545. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1541-4337.2012.00201.x
- Hamdi, A., Jaramillo-Carmona, S., Rodrigues-Arcos, R., Jiménez-Araujo, A., & Guillén-Bejarano, R. (2020). Chapter 19: Pineapple. Nutritional Composition and Antioxidant Properties of Fruits and Vegetables, pages 379-396. https://doi.org/10.1016/B978-0-12-812780-3.00008-8
- Devi Ramaiya, Shiamala, et al. “Sugars, Ascorbic Acid, Total Phenolic Content and Total Antioxidant Activity in Passion Fruit (Passiflora) Cultivars.” Journal of the Science of Food and Agriculture, vol. 93, no. 5, John Wiley & Sons, Ltd, 2013, pp. 1198–205, doi:10.1002/jsfa.5876.
- Boland, Mike. “Kiwifruit proteins and enzymes: actinidin and other significant proteins.” Advances in food and nutrition research vol. 68 (2013): 59-80. doi:10.1016/B978-0-12-394294-4.00004-3
- Calendrier des arrivages - Mouvement J’aime les fruits et légumes. (s. d.). Mouvement J’aime les Fruits et Légumes. https://www.jaimefruitsetlegumes.ca/fr/aliments/
- Tandon, A. (2022, août 11). ‘Food miles’ have larger climate impact than thought, study suggests. Carbon Brief. https://www.carbonbrief.org/food-miles-have-larger-climate-impact-than-thought-study-suggests/
- Équiterre. (2007). Choisir l'avenir : se choisir. Montréal: Collections de BAnQ. Récupéré de [https://numerique.banq.qc.ca/patrimoine/details/52327/1867911?docref=T6qrX0CQH_3z81UPM1PXew]
- Les systèmes de garantie du commerce équitable - Association québécoise du commerce équitable. (2023, April 6). Association Québécoise Du Commerce Équitable. https://assoquebecequitable.org/le-commerce-equitable/les-systemes-de-garantie-du-commerce-equitable/
- Systèmes de production biologique – principes généraux et normes de gestion. Office des normes générales du Canada, 2018.
