Foodshed

Foodshed is a term used to describe the geographical area from which a population derives its food supply. The concept of a foodshed is similar to that of a watershed: it refers to the flow of food from the area where it is produced to the place where it is consumed, including the land it grows on, the route it travels, the markets it passes through, and the tables it ends up on.

Origin of the term

The term "foodshed" was first used in 1929 by Walter Hedden in his book "How Great Cities Are Fed". Hedden compared the flow of food with that of water in a watershed, hence the term "foodshed". The concept was later expanded upon by sustainable agriculture advocates in the 1990s.

Importance of Foodsheds

Foodsheds are important for several reasons. They help us understand the flow of food from production to consumption, which can be crucial for ensuring food security. They also highlight the importance of local food systems in reducing carbon footprint and promoting sustainable agriculture.

Foodshed Analysis

A foodshed analysis is a tool used to understand the dynamics of the food system. It can help identify the strengths and weaknesses of the local food system, and provide insights into how to make it more sustainable and resilient.

Foodshed and Sustainability

The concept of foodshed is closely linked to sustainability. By sourcing food locally, we can reduce the carbon footprint associated with long-distance transportation. Moreover, local food systems are often more resilient to shocks such as climate change and economic crises.

See also

• Local food
• Sustainable agriculture
• Food security
• Carbon footprint