In the South, the phrase “slow food movement” may sound like an ailment Uncle Bubba complains about as he’s finishing off the last of the cheese dip at a family get-together. Nevertheless, Dec. 10 marked the 20th year of the ever-growing Slow Food Movement group, who rally against processed and fast foods with the aspiration of a healthier, slower paced world.

The slow food movement began in 1986 in Italy, founded by Carlo Petrini, according to www.splendidtable.publicradio.org. The group celebrates on Dec. 10, also known as Terra Madre Day or Mother Earth Day. The concept of the group is to get back to authentic, sustained food from local farmers and our own backyards.

In an economy where everyone is watching their pennies, growing food in the backyard may not be a bad New Year’s resolution. Not only is the slow food concept a healthier way of eating, it also will save money. Homegrown or locally grown foods have fewer opportunities for contaminations and contain more nutrition because they are fresh. Also, a pack of seeds for a couple of dollars may yield months of produce, for example. In addition, buying meat from animals raised locally or buying produce from local farms supports the local community’s economy.

“Buying from the local farmer not only financially benefits the farmer but the community as well. Today’s farmer receives less than 10 cents of the retail food dollar. When farmers sell directly to the consumer, the middleman is cut out thus producing a higher profit for the farmer. The farmer then circulates his profits throughout the community with local merchants creating a cycle that helps to build a strong local economy,” the Farmers Market Authority at the State of Alabama Web site states.

Overall though, the slow food movement is more of a state of mind, a philosophy, rather than a fare. According to MedicineNet.com, there are 228,000 fast food eateries and 90 million microwave ovens in the U.S. The hustle and bustle of too many tasks and too little time leave one wondering if Americans even have time to taste their food anymore.

Slowing down to prepare and enjoy food is a wonderful way to start a new year. Here are some ideas to start your own slow food movement:

• Eat at local diners. Slow food doesn’t necessarily mean that it has to take all day to prepare or even be done at home. Eating at local “mom and pop” diners where fresh local ingredients are most likely served is one way to take it slow.

• Prepare a meal at home once a week. Making a meal at home at least once a week gives the family a chance to sit at the table and savor the flavors, food and company.

• Find out what is in season and visit local farmers markets. The Farmers Market in Athens is located on West Green Street. It is currently open in the morning on Fridays, and in warmer weather Tuesdays and Fridays.

• Spend time with relatives. Ask a relative how to prepare a favorite dish. Grandma’s oldest recipes most likely were inspired by vegetables produced from a “Victory Garden.” Cooking and dining together will make memories and preserve family heritage.