Want a more sustainable food system? Vote with your dollars

Want a reason to be optimistic? The global food system is showing some green shoots that suggest more sustainable farming practices are on the way.

But consumers play an integral role in making that a reality, and the choices they make every time they shop at the grocery store matter more than we may realize.

That’s because farmers, companies, and consumers must all work together to create a more sustainable food system, according to Paul Rice, founder of Fair Trade USA, which certifies products to meet standards around fair pricing, safe working conditions, and sustainable farming practices.

“We have the ability to vote with our dollars . . . to choose products that are climate friendly, that are sustainable, that are healthy, that are nutritious,” said Rice, speaking at the Fast Compa