Food

When you think of a bean what do you imagine? Something long and green?

When you think of a tomato what do you think of? Something round and red?

When you think of corn what do you think of? Something long and yellow?

You’re right! But…….. Did you know there are thousands of different varieties of some of our favourite foods? Take a look at some of the amazing varieties of common crops we eat every day.

Beans

Tomatoes

Corn

Watermelons

Peppers

Lettuces

Radishes

Potatoes

Carrots

Cauliflowers

Apples

All of these different varieties have different “traits” Another way of saying this is they all have different SUPER POWERS! Survives cold weather 0 Grows well even in hot, dry weather Very high in vitamins Is not killed by disease

Why don’t we see all of this variety at the grocery store? Most varieties of fruits and vegetables you see at the store are there because they are easy to: 1. Grow and pick using farm machines 2. Transport long distances without being damaged 3. Grow in large amounts so the grocery store can buy a lot at once

What about all of those other amazing varieties? If we don’t save and grow the seeds from these varieties, we will lose them forever. That means they would become extinct, like…. the dinosaurs!

If you want to save these amazing varieties… Start with amazing seeds!

Everybody can protect food biodiversity. Here’s how. Get seeds from local farmers or seed companies Ask for rare and endangered varieties in your region Grow some of your own food Plant your seeds, enjoy the food, and save the new seeds to keep on growing! Visit your local Farmer’s Market Taste a new variety of fruit or vegetable Challenge yourself and your school Grow as many different varieties as possible!