Sustainable Eating Isn’t All or Nothing: 5 Simple Ways to Eat More Consciously

Welcome back to the kitchen, where I believe that food isn’t just fuel, it’s a powerful way to live in alignment with our values. To me, sustainability isn’t about perfection or pressure. It’s about small shifts, made with intention, that bring us closer to the kind of world we want to live in.

Here are five approachable, feel-good ways to eat more sustainably this summer - no guilt, just growth.

1. Eat What’s In Season (and Local When You Can)

One of the easiest and most impactful ways to eat more consciously is to choose what’s growing near you. In Canada, summer brings a beautiful abundance: think rhubarb, strawberries, fresh herbs, zucchini, peas, and tomatoes. These foods don’t just taste better—they also reduce the energy footprint that comes from shipping and storage.

Tip: Visit your local farmers market or look for local labels at your grocery store. Not sure what’s in season? I have you covered! Check out my blog post How to Shop Seasonal Produce in Canada: A Guide to Eating Fresh, Local, and with Love. It includes a free printable guide so you’re never wondering what’s in season again! 

2. Reduce Food Waste With Creative Cooking

Food waste is one of the biggest contributors to climate change, but there are so many joyful ways to reduce it. Try turning wilted greens into pesto, overripe fruit into compote or smoothies, and vegetable scraps into homemade broth.

In our home, I love planning for a "clean-out-the-fridge" meal once a week. It pushes me to get creative, and often those dishes become family favourites.

3. Choose Plant-Based When It Feels Good

You don’t have to go 100% vegan to make a difference. Even swapping one or two meals a week for plant-based options can lower your environmental footprint and support your body with fibre-rich, nutrient-dense foods.

Start with something fun and flavourful, like our Grain-Free Donut Holes, Lemon Almond Cake with Rhubarb Compote, or a simple lentil-based salad.

4. Buy in Bulk (and Store it Well)

Bulk buying helps reduce packaging waste and often saves money too. I stock our pantry with bulk items like oats, rice, nuts, and dried fruit. Stored in glass jars, they stay fresh and beautiful.

Bonus: Bulk sections often let you try new ingredients in small amounts, which is perfect for experimenting without overbuying.

5. Grow What You Can

Even if you don’t have a backyard garden, growing a few herbs on your windowsill or balcony can be incredibly satisfying (and sustainable). Fresh basil, mint, and parsley thrive in small pots, and nothing beats the flavour of something you grew yourself.

It’s a gentle reminder that the smallest changes can make the biggest impact, especially when done with love.

Sustainable Eating Is a Journey

However you begin, remember: conscious eating doesn’t have to be all or nothing. Whether you’re buying local berries, using up your leftovers, or growing mint in a mason jar, it all counts.

Thanks for being here. For more nourishing, sustainable recipes, make sure to follow me on socials - @withlovefromjamey! 

With love,  Jamey