It turns out we're a nation of take-away loving junk eaters.
A recent report on the nation's eating habits shows that Australian's make 51.5 million visits to fast food restaurants every month. The study also found that young Aussies were the most likely to eat out and eat fast food -- with 60 percent of those aged 14-29 eating fast food at least once a month compared with the national average of 45 per cent, which is still very high.
Furthermore, us Aussies eat three times more junk food than the recommended daily intake (consuming junk food every day rather than as an indulgence), and a study of 40,000 Australians found, on average, people consumed the equivalent of 32kg of chocolate a year (!!).
This might surprise some -- especially our international friends who for the most part invision Aussie's to be tanned, outdoorsy ripped specimens showing off our buff bods along the country's coastlines.
It seems timely then, that Landcare Australia have launched the first ever "Farm To Fork" initiative. Running for the next few months, the campaign encourages us all to support Aussie farmers in numerous ways -- such as hosting a dinner party or visiting a participating restaurant. But perhaps the most needed, given the above data, is the "Fresh Living Challenge".
It's simple. Eat local, healthy, sustainable and fresh food. This means no processed foods, no junk food and no sugary drinks. Get sponsors to support your challenge which in turn supports the farmers who keep our land healthy, productive and sustainable, by both eating their produce and donating funds raised at the end.
Eating better for a healthier you and helping our farmers -- what more incentive do you need? Maybe a little chocolate at the end, then.
Learn more on the Farm To Fork website.