The week of our food: healthy, sustainable and enjoy together!
Are you curious about how your eating habits can not only improve your health, but also have a positive impact on the world?
In the second week of October we celebrate the week of our food, an initiative of Dutch Food Week. This week is all about raising awareness about what we eat, where it comes from and how it affects our well-being. It is a perfect opportunity to discover healthy and sustainable eating habits and experience the joy of eating together. Whether you are a seasoned foodie or just looking for inspiration, there is something for everyone to discover!
Healthy eating: nutritious and delicious
Healthy eating doesn’t have to be boring. It can be nutritious as well as delicious. Here are some tips to make your meals healthier and tastier:
- Colorful Plates: Fill your plate with a rainbow of fruits and vegetables. The more colorful your plate, the more different nutrients you get.
- Whole Grain Options: Choose whole grain products such as whole wheat pasta, bread and rice. They contain more fiber and keep you satiated longer.
- Healthy Fats: Add healthy fats to your diet, such as avocado, nuts and olive oil. They are good for your heart and give you energy.
- Protein Sources: Get plenty of protein such as chicken, fish, tofu and beans. Proteins are essential for muscle recovery and energy.
Sustainable Eating: Good for You and the Planet
Our eating habits have a big impact on the planet. By making conscious choices, you contribute to a more sustainable world:
- Choose local and seasonal produce: These are often fresher and have a smaller carbon footprint. Plus, they often taste better because they are harvested in their natural season.
- Try vegetarian meals regularly: Plant-based foods tend to have a lower impact on the environment.
- Avoid food waste: Plan your meals and buy only what you need. Use leftovers creatively in new dishes. Maybe you can set up a leftover day where you make new creations from leftovers.
- Choose organic produce: These are grown without synthetic pesticides and fertilizers, which is better for the environment as well as your health.
Eating together: connecting and enjoying
Food is more than just nutrition; it brings people together. Invite friends or family to cook together and try new recipes. Make every meal a party:
- Set the table nicely: A cozy atmosphere makes food even more delicious. Maybe you can organize a theme night such as Italian, Mexican or another cuisine you are not so familiar with.
- Organize an evening with dishes from different cultures: Discover new flavors and expand your culinary horizons.
- Plan shared meals: Consider a weekly family dinner or a monthly dinner with friends, where everyone brings a dish to share.
Time to Take Action!
Week of Our Food is a great opportunity to be intentional about what you eat, how you eat and who you eat with. By making healthy, sustainable choices and enjoying meals with others, you not only improve your own well-being, but also contribute to a better world. So seize this October month to discover new habits and enjoy delicious food!
Book tips for healthy and sustainable inspiration
Would you like to learn more about healthy and sustainable eating habits? Then these books are highly recommended:
‘Eat like an expert‘ by Marijke Berkenpas: This book offers practical and science-based tips on how to eat healthier, without sacrificing taste.
‘Plenty‘ by Yotam Ottolenghi: This cookbook is full of surprising and flavorful vegetarian recipes that show how delicious plant-based food can be.
