I spent yesterday morning with a few friends who have, like me, made changes in the way they shop for and prepare food. I expected the discussion to be thought-provoking. What I did not expect was how different all of our reasons are for stepping off the conventional industrial path.

I’m assuming that since you’re reading this, you also have an interest in eating locally, seasonally, organic, or humanely-raised. (Or all of the above). But why? It’s easier and often cheaper to shop by price only in mainstream stores. What prompted your change?

Did you watch Food, Inc.?
Did you read The Omnivore’s Dilemma?
Did you read an article about pesticide contamination?
Do you care about the fair treatment of laborers? The fair treatment of animals?

What are your reasons for paying attention to your food and where it comes from?
And just as important, since we all have limited budgets, what areas do you focus on?