Giving sustainable items as gifts

Last Updated on September 23, 2020 by Ellen Christian

Christmas is a time of year when many of us do more shopping than normal.  We use more paper, ribbons, tape and gift bags than any other time of the year. We are tempted by flashing lights, glossy packages, and overly processed treats as we prepare for entertaining friends and family.  Even those of us who try to keep sustainability in mind can be tempted to over consume at this time of year.  While I was shopping, I started wondering whether giving sustainable items as gifts would work for people on my gift list.

Giving sustainable items as gifts

Giving sustainable items as gifts is certainly possible.  Sustainable items are generally items that are grown or manufactured in a way that causes as little harm to our planet as possible.  Plants are organic or grown without harmful pesticides and fertilizers.  Fabric are created without using harmful chemicals and dyes.  Products are created in a way that pays a livable wage and gives back to the community the company is based in.  Companies who follow sustainable practices value health, human welfare and the environment over their own commercial needs.

Crave Brothers Farmstead Cheese offers cheese products that are handcrafted on their diary farm in Wisconsin. Their Holstein cows are fed homegrown, high quality forages consisting of corn, alfalfa, and soybeans.  Their farm emphasizes conservation and uses sustainable practices in its operation.  They take into consideration what’s best for their environment, the cows, and the consumer. Their cows receive exercise, fresh air and individualized care.  Their manure is converted into energy and organic fertilizer through a methane digester that is located on their farm.  They use 100% green power, and practice water conservation and recycling.

Their cheeses are produced right on their family farm in Wisconsin using Old World techniques.  The cheese business is a sustainable family business and they are committed to their employees, customers, and local community. Giving sustainable items as gifts can be as simple as choosing a selection of cheese from Crave Brothers including their Les Freres, Petit Frere, Fresh Mozzarella, Farmer’s Rope, or Mascarpone cheeses.   Add these cheeses to a simple wicker basket, add a cutting board and a loaf of home baked bread, and you have the ideal Christmas gift for anyone.

Of course, you can also treat yourself to some delicious handcrafted cheese from Crave Brothers.   I know that my guests will enjoy being served Les Freres or Petit Frere cheese with crackers this year.   Their fresh Mozzarella will be perfect in lasagna as part of our Christmas meal and the kids love snacking on Farmer’s Rope cheese!   We used the Crave Brothers Mascarpone in a delicious Creamy Pasta with Sage dish for lunch. Of course, Crave Brothers has a whole section of recipes on their website that you’ll want to try including a Seafood Chowder and a Lasagna Soup that would be amazing for entertaining this year.

If you’re interested in giving sustainable items as gifts this year, I recommend that you look at the farmstead cheese available from Crave Brothers.

Ellen Christian

Ellen is a busy mom of a 24-year-old son and 29-year-old daughter. She owns six blogs and is addicted to social media. She believes that it doesn’t have to be difficult to lead a healthy life. She shares simple healthy living tips to show busy women how to lead fulfilling lives. If you’d like to work together, email info@confessionsofanover-workedmom.com to chat.