Thoughtful Choices to Feed the Future
As May brings longer days, greener fields, and warmer temperatures, we’re reflecting on the joys of fresh air, swimming in crystal clear lakes, and delicious veggies straight from the garden. This month, we’re spotlighting the environmental impact of livestock feed, the ongoing challenge of methane emissions and farm runoff, and sharing tasty, sustainable cookout ideas for the sunny days ahead so tou can enjoy a more sustainable summer!
Rethinking Food Allocation: Feeding Animals or People?
Did you know that nearly one-third of the world’s cropland is used to grow feed for livestock? The lamentable deforestation that we hear about so often is actually happening in order to create grazing land for cattle and soy fields for their food. In fact, only 7% of the world’s soy crops are for human consumption. Ask yourself: Why can we feed 26 billion farm animals, but we can’t feed 8 billion humans? At Sweet Farm, we’re committed to reducing this imbalance.
Why it matters:
Growing grains and soy for livestock requires vast amounts of land, water, and energy—resources that could be used to feed people directly. Eating plant-based diets helps rebalance the system and feed more mouths with fewer inputs.
Tackling Methane & Runoff: Cleaner Air, Healthier Water
Animal agriculture is responsible for about 32% of global methane emissions, a potent greenhouse gas contributing to climate change. On top of that, runoff from animal farms—rich in nitrogen, phosphorus, and bacteria—can pollute waterways and harm ecosystems. In fact, it is the primary driver of algal blooms in our beautiful lakes!
Here at Sweet Farm, we:
Use composting systems to manage animal waste.
Plant native vegetation buffers around pastures to filter runoff.
Promote regenerative practices that prioritize soil health and reduce emissions.
WHAT YOU CAN DO: Reducing your consumption of animal products and supporting farms that practice regenerative and responsible agriculture is a powerful step forward.
Sustainable Summer Cookouts: Plant-Based & Delicious
As we head into grill season, why not make your next BBQ a celebration of plants? Whether you're new to plant-based eating or a seasoned veggie grill master, here are a few ideas to spice things up:
Grilled Street Corn with cashew-lime crema and smoked paprika
Lentil-Mushroom Burgers with avocado and caramelized onions
Watermelon Steaks grilled and glazed with balsamic reduction
Rainbow Pasta Salad with chickpeas, cherry tomatoes, and basil pesto
Dessert Skewers of grilled pineapple, strawberries, and dark chocolate drizzle
Tip: Grilling vegetables or plant-based proteins like veggie burgers, tofu, or tempeh gives you all the smoky flavor and nutrients with none of the methane baggage.
Need more sustainable recipes for your summer entertaining? Check out our Harvest Recipes to make the most of what is soon to be bursting out of gardens and farmstands!
Final Thought
Sustainability isn’t about perfection—it’s about progress. Each mindful decision, from how we feed our own animals to what’s on our picnic plates, helps create a kinder, healthier planet. Thanks for being on this journey with us.
SUSTAINABLE HOME SPOTLIGHT: Salsa Garden Kit
There is NO better way to reduce the carbon footprint of your food than to grow it yourself! This simple kit includes everything you need to grow your own tasty salsa fixins'…including step-by-step instructions. Start gardening on easy mode!
