It takes 16 pounds of grain, for example, to produce just one pound of beef. And that pound of beef requires more than 200 times as much water to produce as the same amount of wheat. Furthermore, the energy equivalent of one gallon of gasoline is needed to produce one pound of grain-fed beef. Try pasta and rice dishes as substitutes for meat dishes. Include as much locally-grown food as possible.
Food produced in the local community consumes less energy for transportation.
Local food purchases also support the region's economy. Non-organic foods are grown and produced with chemical pesticides harmful to humans and the environment. Buy in bulk. Large quantity purchases help eliminate wasteful packaging and often save money. Beer kegs are an excellent choice for those wishing to include alcohol in the celebration.