If you can’t pronounce it, don’t consume it. A great reminder when doing your shopping for the week. Thankfully, with the big push on companies to properly label their products, this is becoming easier than ever. Unfortunately trying to avoid those long, unpronounceable ingredient names – generally chemical additives created to preserve food – can highly impact our usual shopping habits. Regular go-to pantry items are suddenly off the list. So what are some ways to be more contentious but still get to enjoy our favourite dishes? Cook at home more often, using whole recipes. Experiment. Make your own sauces and fresh dips. Buy organic, preservative free ingredients. Shop more frequently, purchasing smaller amounts and fresh. Source local producers – farmers, butchers, bakers, grocers – who can answer your questions about their products and ingredients. Expose yourself to the local food culture of your region, you may be surprised at the diversity you find.

Cakebread Artisan Bakery, www.cakebread.ca