What Is Nutrient Density?

We hear a lot about nutrient density, but what does this really mean? Nutrient density is described as the amount of vitamins, minerals and overall valuable nutrients that are packed into the food you eat. It is influenced by two main factors: 

1. Freshness
2. Soil health

Nutrient density is reduced over time as food becomes less fresh, and sits on a truck or shelf. This happens as part of a process called respiration; as the food breathes, it breaks down its stored organic materials such as carbohydrates, proteins, fats, and natural vitamins.

Our world has built farming to a level of efficiency where we are beginning to deplete soils, by focusing on growth rate and size. Instead, we should be focusing on soil health, as this is where the majority of food will get its nutrients from. The meat and vegetables you eat grow directly from the soil and microbes within it. Whether it is the grass the animal is eating or the vegetable growing right in the ground.

Soil health is one answer to the world's health issues and how we can bring back nutrient dense food. 

Low nutrient density can stem from how food is produced, and the convenience we have built within our food systems. Unfortunately, convenience and cheap food come at a cost. 

People are eating enough calories to sustain our energy for a day, but are not getting enough nutrients and vitamins. We are getting sick more often, with issues such as diabetes and obesity on the rise.

THE CULTIVATR SOLUTION

At CultivatR we work with local producers focusing on soil health and use just in time ordering which increases the nutrient density in the food we eat.

Healthy soil isn't just good for you and the food you eat, it is also good for the environment. We focus on bringing to light the idea that nutrition and flavour is more important in food than variety. Our aim is to bring understanding around where our food comes from and what goes into the growth of it. 

By only working with local farmers it allows us to actually visit the farms and build a relationship with our producers ensuring their practices are building for the future and creating a healthier diet for every one of our customers. Supporting local agriculture can also improve nutrition in our society, by reducing long haul transportation to bring you the freshest products that will retain their nutrients longer.