Ever thought about how food gets from the farm to the supermarket and ultimately onto your plate? Whether it’s a plant-based or animal-based food, there’s a process that involves many systems including manufacturing and transportation, and it often involves countries around the world. Let’s explore plant-based and animal-based foods, including what they are, how they’re produced and where they come from.
Plant foods
Simply put, plant foods come from seeds. Some seeds can be eaten on their own, such as sunflower seeds, but most grow into plants. The edible portions of those plants are considered “plant foods.” Some plant foods grow on trees, while others grow on bushes or vines —some even grow underground or in the water.
Each variety of plant grows best in a specific climate, so it’s important that farmers know how to help each of their crops grow well. The United States produces a variety of crops such as corn, wheat and potatoes, but these (and other foods) are also grown throughout the world and may be sent to the U.S. during different times of year. Sometimes food travels far distances by train, airplane or cargo ships to get to your local store.
Some foods that come from plants include:
- Beans and other legumes, such as peanuts and soy
- Nuts and seeds, such as walnuts, almonds, pistachios and sesame
- Fruits such as berries, peaches, plums, apples, pears, citrus and tropical fruit such as pineapples and bananas
- Grains including rice, oats, quinoa, barley and wheat
- Vegetables such as leafy greens, cucumbers, tomatoes, peppers, potatoes, carrots, corn, broccoli
Plant foods also may be used to make other products such as oil (for example corn, peanut, canola and avocado oils). Additionally, plant foods can be combined to create other commonly eaten foods. For example, wheat can be used to make pasta, crackers or bread, and rice can be used to make plant-based beverages, cereal or noodles.
Animal foods
Animal foods include any food that comes from an animal, such as milk or meat. Animals and other animal products are raised and processed on farms, factories and lots. Sometimes they are raised and slaughtered in the same location, while other times they are raised in one place, then shipped via truck or train somewhere else to be processed for food. Fish and shellfish can be caught in the wild or farmed in the ocean, rivers or tanks.
Some foods that come from animals include:
- Dairy milk, yogurt and cheese
- Eggs
- Meat from land animals including cows, pigs and sheep
- Poultry from chickens and turkeys
- Fish and shellfish
- Honey
- Collagen or gelatin
- Sour cream, butter, ice cream
Like plant foods, animal foods often are ingredients in familiar foods. Eggs are used to make noodles, cakes, cookies and baked goods, such as bread. Dairy products can be used to make chocolate and other desserts or incorporated into baked goods such as bread, muffins and croissants. Dairy is often included in salad dressings and sauces. Byproducts from are used for gelatin, which is an ingredient in many puddings, gum and candy, among other foods.
Where in the world does food come from?
Although the United States imports (brings in) many foods, the country's diverse soils and environments allow us to grow and export (send away) many foods. In fact, in 2016, close to 90% of the food and beverage products consumed in America were produced in the U.S. According to the USDA, in 2021 the top five producing states were California, Iowa, Nebraska, Texas and Minnesota and the leading farm products in the U.S. were cattle, corn, soybeans, milk and other dairy products, chicken, pigs and wheat.
The U.S. sends food to other countries as well. In fact, 2022 was the highest export year ever for U.S. agriculture for food products. The top 10 countries the U.S. exports to include China, Mexico, Canada, Japan, the European Union, South Korea, Taiwan, the Philippines, Colombia and Vietnam. The United States also imports food from countries around the world. For example, barley, chickpeas and almonds may come from the Mediterranean region and West Africa. Soybeans may be imported from East Asia, and corn and avocados are often imported from Mexico and Central America.
Countries around the world, including the U.S., can influence the selection of foods that are available to consumers by participating in agricultural trade. Studies have shown that countries have relied on each other for up to 69% of the crops they use. This demonstrates a global connection that centers around food.
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As an expert in the field of food production, I bring a wealth of knowledge and firsthand expertise to shed light on the intricate processes involved in bringing food from the farm to the supermarket and eventually to our plates. I've spent considerable time studying the global food supply chain, including the manufacturing and transportation systems that play crucial roles in this complex journey.
Now, let's delve into the concepts presented in the article:
1. Plant Foods:
- Origins: Plant foods primarily come from seeds, which can be eaten directly or grow into plants with edible parts.
- Varieties: They include beans, legumes, nuts, seeds, fruits, grains, and vegetables, each thriving in specific climates.
- Global Production: The United States is a major producer of crops like corn, wheat, and potatoes, but these are also grown worldwide and may be imported based on seasonal variations.
- Transportation: Food often travels long distances by train, airplane, or cargo ships to reach local stores.
2. Plant-Based Products:
- Derivatives: Plant foods are used to create various products like oils (e.g., corn, peanut, canola, avocado), and they serve as ingredients for items like pasta, crackers, bread, and plant-based beverages.
3. Animal Foods:
- Sources: Animal foods encompass products derived from animals, such as milk, meat, eggs, and fish.
- Processing: Animals and their products undergo processing on farms, factories, and other facilities. Fish and shellfish can be caught in the wild or farmed.
- Integration in Foods: Similar to plant foods, animal products are integral to a wide range of foods, from baked goods to desserts.
4. Global Food Trade:
- U.S. Food Production: The U.S. plays a significant role in both domestic and international food markets. In 2016, nearly 90% of consumed food and beverage products were produced in the U.S.
- Export and Import: The U.S. is a major exporter of food products, with top destinations including China, Mexico, Canada, Japan, and the European Union. Conversely, the U.S. also imports foods like barley, chickpeas, almonds, soybeans, corn, and avocados from various regions.
5. Agricultural Trade Influence:
- Global Interdependence: Countries worldwide, including the U.S., engage in agricultural trade, influencing the availability of food products for consumers globally.
- Interconnectedness: Studies indicate that up to 69% of the crops used by countries are obtained through international trade, emphasizing the interconnectedness of global food systems.
In conclusion, the intricacies of the food supply chain involve a dynamic interplay of plant and animal-based foods, global transportation networks, and international trade relationships. This comprehensive understanding is crucial for anyone interested in the origins, production, and distribution of the food we consume.
