Powys County Councillor Corinna Kenyon-Wade has embarked on a unique journey to promote local food sustainability by committing to ‘The Powys Diet’ for one month.

This initiative, inspired by the Fife Diet, aims to highlight the benefits of consuming locally sourced food and reducing carbon emissions.

The Powys Diet involves sourcing at least 80 per cent of your food from within Powys. This challenge not only supports local farmers and producers but also aims to reduce food miles.

"Reducing food miles cuts some carbon emissions, and stimulating the local market has to be a good thing," she said.

This diet highlights the challenges of achieving the vision of Bwyd Powys Food, which envisions “Good food for POWYS! Where local, sustainable and healthy food supports communities, its people and the environment.”

Throughout the month, Cllr Kenyon-Wade faced various challenges, including the limited availability of certain food items.

Despite these hurdles, she discovered a wealth of local produce, including honey, apples, chillies, onions, garlic, potatoes, and more.

"This diet is certainly doable if a bit repetitive, and rather heavy on the lard or the animal fats," she added.

The Powys Diet has also shed light on the importance of supporting local producers. Cllr Kenyon-Wade, who represents Knighton with Beguildy, sourced bread flour from Llanigon, butter from Daisy Bank Dairy in Montgomery, and eggs from her neighbour.

Chloe Masefield, Bwyd Powys Food Coordinator for South Powys working out of Cultivate said: “Corinna’s journey emphasises the potential for a sustainable and self-sufficient food system within Powys - something we are passionate about at Bwyd Powys Food.”

Cllr Kenyon-Wade’s experience with The Powys Diet highlights the feasibility and benefits of a local food approach. It is hoped that the initiative will inspire others to consider the impact of their food choices on both the environment and the local economy.