Reducing energy inputs in the US food system, Human Ecology, August 2008, Pimentel D, Williamson S, et al (2008).
An estimated 19 percent of total energy used in the USA is taken up in the production and supply of food. Currently, this mostly comes from non-renewable energy sources which are in short supply. This paper, published in Human Ecology, sets out a number of strategies that could potentially cut fossil energy fuel use in the food system by as much as 50 percent.
The first suggestion the authors put forward is that individuals eat less (apparently the the average American consumes an estimated 3,747 calories a day, 1200-1500 calories over recommendations). They also recommend converting to diets lower in meat. With respect to food production, the authors recommend moving towards more traditional, organic livestock farming methods; similarly, in crop production, reduced pesticide use, increased use of manure, cover crops and crop rotations improve energy efficiency.
Finally, changes to methods of food processing, packaging and distribution could also help to reduce fuel consumption. Although well-established energy-saving considerations in lighting, heating and packaging materials all have their part to play, the authors again highlight individual responsibility as having the biggest impact.
They contend that the most dramatic reduction in energy used for food processing would come about if consumers reduced their demand for highly processed foods. This they say would also help cut down food miles and its related fuel cost as US food travels an average of 2,400 km before it is consumed. This study argues strongly that the consumer is in the strongest position to contribute to a reduction in energy use.
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