Processing food often uses large quantities of energy and other resources for packaging and shipping, which contributes to climate change and environmental degradation. Working conditions in processing plants are often risky and underpaid. Furthermore, the nutritional content of food degrades when it is processed.

Slow food can save you money and give you more control over the food on your plate. Practicing mindfulness and intentionality when preparing and eating food can be a spiritual practice and a part of ethical eating. Whenever possible, instead of buying time by consuming convenience foods and processed foods, spend time preparing food for yourself and the people you care about. Instead of gulping down a meal to get on to the next activity, make the meal the activity itself—enjoying the food and one another’s company.

Learn More

• Slow Food USA seeks to create dramatic and lasting change in the food system. They reconnect Americans with the people, traditions, and environment from which food comes. They provide information about their programs, events, campaigns, and local chapters on their website.
• “How I beat KFC’s ‘family meal’ challenge“: A KFC commercial argued that a family meal couldn’t be made for less than $10. One man took on the challenge and came out ahead.
• World Community Cookbooks: The Mennonite Central Committee has put together some great cookbooks and resources emphasizing simplicity and eating in the spirit of “More With Less.” The feature basic, unprocessed ingredients and are easy and flavorful.

Take Action

• Lead a cooking workshop using fresh fruits and vegetables as a religious education class. Invite your congregation’s youth group to partner with a local school or childcare center to make a healthy snack like fresh salsa or smoothies.
• Have a Slow Food Community Dinner Night. Congregants can sign up to host dinner parties with slow food in mind. Share a grace before the meal that connects the activity to food justice.

For additional resources and links to learn more, see the ethical eating and food justice main page.