Going local does not mean walling off the outside world. It means nurturing locally owned businesses which use local resources sustainably, employ workers at decent wages and serve primarily local customers. It means becoming more self sufficient and less dependent on imports. Control moves from the boardrooms of distant companies and back into the community. – http://thinkshopbuylocal.com
The LËT’Z GO LOCAL maart, held at the Carrērotondes on 4th and 5th October, gave local producers and suppliers a platform to market their goods to the conscientious consumer motivated by sustainability and supporting the local economy. With over 65 stands offering everything from concrete furniture to handmade soaps and bath bombs; there was literally something to wet every type of appetite.
The focus for the Autumn/Winter market was predominantly on food and drinks. As Anne Faber mentioned in the magazine’s editorial, ‘Everyone’s a foodie these days! It’s become the latest hipster tag..”
In addition to the numerous ‘Foodie’ stands there were also several food related presentations in the main lounge area and smaller workshops for parents and children to participate in.
Out of all the food stands I visited there were 3 specifically which caught my attention; particularly because of their focus on health, organic produce and convenience – 3 of my favorite things!
Too busy to decide what to cook? Avocado does the work for you! Not only do they create healthy and inspirational recipes to suit the pickiest of appetites, but they even deliver the ingredients directly to you. All their produce is 100% wild or organic and, where possible, sourced from local suppliers, supporting both the environment and the Luxembourg economy. There are a range of boxes to choose from and you can stipulate the number of family members you will be cooking for. For added convenience you can order online !
When it comes to foodie buzz words, hands down, ‘Juicing’, wins the prize every time! ” Sorry, can’t make lunch on Saturday, I’m on a juice detox,” has become a common phrase and created a multi-billion pound industry in the process. I confess, I too own a juicer, but not only do I have to buy 20kg of fruit to make one miniscule glass of juice, I end up throwing the rest of the produce away – Environmentally conscious – I think Not!
In June 2014 Vesela and Elliot launched Go Gusto, Luxembourg’s first cold pressed juice company. Elliot reliably told me that by cold pressing the fruits and vegetables they retain the maximum amount of nutrients and enzymes. All the produce for the juice is sourced from local or BIO suppliers and can be ordered online and delivered directly to your home or place of work. My personal favourite was the Carrot, Apple and Ginger, but they are all equally delicious!
TERRA is Luxembourg’s first community supported agriculture programme (CSA). A CSA is an alternative, locally-based economic model of agriculture and food distribution which takes out the ‘ middle man’ and ensures consumers know exactly where and how the produce they are consuming is grown. Terra is located within 1.5 hectares in Eicherfeld near Luxembourg city . All produce is organic, pesticide free and ,of course, seasonal. Members can choose the size of the basket they wish to receive and then collect it weekly either from Eicherfeld directly or from several other community pick up points around Luxembourg. The community aspect is strongly encouraged with events/workshops and of course members swapping recipes and ideas when they gather for their weekly pick up.
For details of the next LËT’Z GO LOCAL market , visit their website or their Facebook page.
Gudden Appetit!
Credits: Photos by Alix Burton & Karolina Szatna, quote design by Linda Dieschbourg.