September is the patriotic month, an ideal time to reflect on our roots, customs, and the impact of our daily decisions, especially in the way we buy and consume. In this Ethical Shopping Guide, we give you some practical tips for making more conscious decisions when buying food and household products, and highlight how responsible consumption can make a difference. 1. Support Local: A Gesture that Impacts Everyone Buying local products not only strengthens the economy of our communities but also reduces the carbon footprint by avoiding long-distance transportation. By opting for local products, you are contributing to the well-being of small farmers who maintain more sustainable and traditional practices. Nowadays, it is not easy to find products that maintain these qualities, but it is something that is increasingly relevant in the market. If you have the opportunity to support local products, you are taking an important step towards more ethical consumption. 2. Choose Pesticide-Free Products: A Decision for Your Health and the Planet The use of pesticides in conventional agriculture has considerable impacts on both our health and the environment. By choosing pesticide-free products, you not only take care of your well-being but also protect ecosystems that depend on respectful agricultural practices. We know that it is not always easy to access these types of products, but choosing pesticide-free options when you can make a big difference in the long run. These small decisions add up to a healthier lifestyle for you and the planet. 3. The Value of Native Corn: A Heritage We Must Care For Native corn is much more than a food, it is part of our history and culture. Unfortunately, most tortillas in Mexico come from genetically modified corn sold by large corporations like Pioneer or Monsanto. This corn has been genetically modified to be sterile, which means that farmers cannot reuse their seeds for the next harvest, forcing them to depend on these companies every year. There are not many places where native corn is still offered, but fortunately, there are options to access this type of product, keeping alive a tradition that enriches our food culture. 4. Bees and Corn: The Connection We Must Not Lose Nature shows us that everything is interconnected, and bees play a crucial role in pollinating crops like corn. Without bees, our ability to produce key foods, such as native corn, would be severely affected. That is why it is said that "Without bees, there is no pozole." Bees are not only vital for maintaining our culinary traditions but also for ensuring the sustainability of our food. Supporting agricultural practices that protect these pollinators is a simple action with great repercussions. 5. Let‘s Eat Like Our Ancestors Making more conscious decisions in our purchases is an act of reconnection with our roots. Choosing local, pesticide-free, and native corn foods allows us to return to the practices of our great-grandparents, with healthier and less industrialized foods. In addition to respecting our traditions, these types of decisions help you enjoy a more balanced diet, free of chemicals, and preserve the richness of our food heritage. You don‘t have to do it all at once; every step counts, and starting with these small actions is an excellent beginning. At Hortú, we believe that conscious decisions can make a big impact. Buying local, choosing pesticide-free products, and opting for traditional foods like native corn are just some of the ways you can contribute to a more ethical and responsible consumption. These small actions add up to a more sustainable lifestyle connected to our roots. This September, celebrate the best of Mexico with choices that take care of you, the environment, and our traditions. Visit us at Hortú and discover our native corn tortillas and many more local and fresh products! Images from Tortilla de Maíz Mexicana by Rafael Mier Sainz, published on September 17, 2024