Happy FOOD DAY!

Photo courtesy/Foodday.org

Happy 1st Annual Food Day, health buffs! Food Day is both an organization and an celebration that aims to bring together all types of people, from teachers to dietitians, to push for healthy, affordable food and a sustainable agricultural community. The organization has paired with non-profits and for-profits alike to sponsor thousands of food-related events nationwide. It was co-chaired by two senators, but they receive no federal subsidies or funding. It's a day for awareness and advocacy, for health and happiness. According to their website, the six Food Day principles are:

1. Reduce diet-related disease by promoting safe, healthy foods.
2. Support sustainable farms and limit subsidies to big agribusiness.
3. Expand access to food and alleviate hunger.
4. Protect the environment and animals by reforming factory farms.
5. Promote health by curbing junk-food marketing to kids.
6. Support fair conditions for food and farm workers.

Some very lofty goals, but very admirable. And thus far, the movement has been pretty successful. The #FoodDay hashtag on twitter is doing well, and there are major events in Boston and other big cities nationwide.

So how are you celebrating? Food Day encourages food providers and consumers to celebrate in their own ways, but there are many other more-organized events, as well. College campuses, restaurants, grocery stores and community organizations are all hosting various Food Day events.  The map to the right shows the locations of various Boston Food Day events—and those are just the ones that FoodDay.org knows about.

Host a dinner party, cook a homemade meal. Eat locally or organically for one day (or more!). Food Day is a great day to start making little changes towards a healthier, more sustainable lifestyle. Check out local events on Food Day's website. Or just search Boston.com for Food Day events. Happy eating!