So we've long heard about the benefits of shopping locally. Now a university has been given the go ahead (and funding) to study whether it's actually healthier. Here's the thought process ...

"By definition, locally farmed food is not going to come from large commercial food companies, so people who eat locally aren’t going to consume as much processed food, which typically contains lots of refined carbohydrates, sugar, fat and preservatives.

By focusing your diet on products grown and raised within 100 miles of your home, you will likely end up eating more fruits and vegetables as well. Shopping for fruits and vegetables at farmers’ markets is also pleasurable and may lead to more variety in your diet. Eating local often means you can meet the people who produce your food, and you can also ask questions about pesticide use and farming methods.

http://well.blogs.nytimes.com/2008/06/06...

What are your thoughts? Are you sold on the idea that buying local may boost health?