Prime Minister Gaston Browne is encouraging residents to consume more locally produced food, saying a shift away from processed imports could help reduce chronic diseases and lower the country’s healthcare costs.

Speaking on the Browne and Browne Show on Saturday, Browne said improving food security must go hand in hand with promoting healthier eating habits.

“We need our people to eat healthier. We need to eat more of our local foods,” Browne said.

He argued that many imported processed foods contribute to the growing prevalence of non-communicable diseases such as diabetes and hypertension.

“The processed foods are what’s killing us,” Browne said, adding that increased consumption of fresh fruits, vegetables and locally produced meats could improve public health outcomes.

The prime minister said the government is investing in agriculture to increase the supply of locally grown produce, including the development of the Diamonds Agro-Industrial Park, the Christian Valley agro-tourism project and two modern abattoirs.

Browne said strengthening domestic food production would not only improve national food security but also reduce the country’s import bill and help lower the cost of living.

He added that healthier diets would lessen the burden on the healthcare system by reducing the incidence of chronic illnesses that require long-term treatment.

The remarks formed part of Browne’s broader discussion on the government’s plans to modernize agriculture while encouraging Antiguans and Barbudans to support local farmers by purchasing more locally produced food.

This article was originally published by Antigua News Room. Read the original article here: PM Browne Urges Greater Consumption of Local Foods to Improve Health.