Food network wants members

The Peninsula Environment Group is looking for new members to join its food network in order to support local farmers while enjoying healthy and tasty food.

The local group liaises with organic farmers from Mangrove Mountain to provide a fortnightly supply for network members.

Group member Ms Shirley Hotchkiss of Umina said as well as the health and environmental benefits of the program, members reported superior quality and taste at affordable prices.

"Since industrial times, urban dwellers have been encouraged to grow their own food in times of crisis, such as war and recession," Ms Hotchkiss said.

"Or they've been motivated by poverty or scarcity to make the most efficient use of resources.

"And some cultures like Italian and Greek have brought their practices to Australia.

"Instead of a front yard of lawn and palm trees, they grew carrots, tomatoes, figs, grapes, and shared the surplus with neighbours, friends and family.

"But when we eat non-organic produce, we are ingesting many chemicals and pesticides. "And, if we eat animal produce like eggs and meat, we also consume the hormones used by farmers to promote quick growth.

"Orchards and vegie gardens are no longer commonplace here.

"So the Peninsula Environment Group has been operating a food network to source and supply local organic fruit and vegies.

"If you would like to make a positive difference to the environment, support local farmers, and eat healthy, tasty food, click on the Food Network link at www.peg.org.au.

Press release, 20 Aug 2009 Shirley Hotchkiss, Peninsula Environment Group