Proximity products or km 0: What are, examples and benefits

Proximity products or also known as kilometer zero products is an increasingly widespread and used concept. This is the name given to the food produced within 100 kilometers of the place of sale. The definition also takes into account the food products that are produced in the same area for sale and that are also seasonal. For example, seasonal fruits and vegetables of the region, instead of those grown in greenhouses throughout the year.

Marketing closer to where it is produced is key to defining this type of food as more sustainable, since transport distances are shorter and less CO2 is emitted to the atmosphere during transport.

In addition to lower environmental costs, there are other favorable factors that influence the consumption of local products. For example, consumers can choose food directly from the farm or field to their table, so that There is no significant loss in quality or gain. When food imports from afar, more intermediaries are introduced, which increases costs, pollutes more and worsens the acquisition process.

The philosophy behind proximity products is based on several principles. First, they seek Promote sustainabilitysince by minimizing product displacements, fuel consumption is reduced and, therefore, greenhouse gas emissions. In addition, al favor local productionthe economy of the area is promoted and jobs are created.

These products also promote quality and freshness, since being transported in short distances, they reach consumers in a more optimal state and without the need for preservatives or long -term processes. Therefore, The authenticity and original flavor of food are valued.

Likewise, proximity products allow establishing a closest relationship between the producer and the consumer. Consumers usually know better the origin of the products they are acquiring, which increases confidence in what they are buying and in the production practices used. This approach also favors Diversity and conservation of local culturesince it promotes the preservation of native varieties of traditional foods and artisanal products.

There is a wide variety of km 0 products that encourage local consumption. Among them, the most common are:

• Fruits and vegetables: Fresh products are one of the most common examples of proximity products. For example, apples grown in a garden near the city would be considered a product of km 0 if they are sold directly in a local market.
• Artisanal cheeses: Many traditional cheeses are made by small producers in specific regions. The goat cheeses of a nearby farm, which are only marketed in local stores, would be an example of proximity products.
• Baked bread and products: Local bakers who use ingredients from the area to make bread, cakes and other baked products are another example of KM 0 products.
• Eggs and poultry: Eggs produced by local farms and poultry raised in the nearby area can also be considered proximity products.
• Local honey: Honey produced by beekeepers that maintain their hives in nearby areas provides an authentic and sustainable product.
• Craft wine and beer: Local wineries and breweries that use grapes or cereals cultivated in the region to produce their drinks are a clear example of km 0 products.
• Textile products: In some regions, the production of fabrics and clothing is promoted using local materials, such as cotton or wool in the area.
• Meat and sausages: Animal meat raised in nearby farms and locally made sausages also enter into the category of proximity products.
• Cosmetics and personal care products: Some brands use natural and native ingredients to manufacture beauty and personal care products that reflect the identity and wealth of the region.

We invite you to read this article about local consumption: what is and its importance.

The consumption of local food has universal benefits for all actors in the supply chain and is an important commitment to environmental sustainability. These are some of the advantages for consumers who choose this type of products:

• They are seasonal: So they do not need preservatives and do not need freezer or packaging for long trips.
• They help protect biodiversity and planet: Betting for local trade protect flora and fauna. Not traveling, animal and plants products deteriorate less and, locally, intensive agricultural plantations and crops are avoided that do not respect the environment.
• Proximity can also combat climate change: Because the products have a short trip from the producer to the consumer. That means that less polluting gases are emitted during delivery and less containers to transport food are used, which are often plastic and end as waste.
• Quality and freshness: KM 0 products are harvested or elaborated at the right time for consumption, which ensures its freshness and quality. By not requiring long storage or transport periods, they retain their original flavor and nutrients.
• Support to the local economy: Buying proximity products promotes the economy of the community in which they are produced. The generated income directly benefits the farmers, artisans and small local producers, which encourages the creation of employment and the economic development of the region.
• Help save: The largest products often incur additional packaging costs, taxes or shipping route that consumers end up paying to reach the final price. It should not be applied to the cost of zero kilometer products. However, consumers must accept fair prices for these products offered by small producers.
• Preservation of traditions and culture: Proximity products are often linked to traditional techniques and recipes transmitted from generation to generation. Consuming them helps preserve the cultural identity and gastronomic heritage of the region.

Now that you know what the proximity or km0 products are and what are their benefits, do not miss this article about organic products: what are and examples.

If you want to read more articles similar to Proximity products or km 0: What are, examples and benefitswe recommend that you enter our category of organic products.