Organic Produce - Organics Outshine Convention

In the 20th Century farming was revolutionized by the introduction of synthetic chemicals in the form of non-organic pesticides, insecticides and herbicides and the widespread systematic use of antibiotics and growth hormones in livestock.

Agriculture became a corporate business and farms became bigger and less diverse with many large areas devoted to mono-cropping. This is intensive farming of the same crop year after year on large tracks of land.

By working against nature conventional farming has disrupted the natural harmony and biodiversity of the earth. Intensive farming practices have damaged our ecosystems; contributing to large scale land erosion, salinity, water pollution and the degradation of natural habitats.

Conventional farming methods rely heavily on the addition of synthetic elements through chemical fertilizers, synthetic nutrients and in the case of livestock antibiotic additives. As a result these elements eventually end up as residue in the product itself or in the natural environment.Now that isn't to say the produce from conventional farming is unsafe, our food industry is highly regulated and there is no reason to panic or become fearful of food produced from conventional farming.

Conventional farming has provided the means for a stable, world wide supply of a huge variety of foods available to us year round at a price we have come to expect. This has changed the way we shop and the way we eat. But, has it come at a price?

There is some doubt and much debate over the long term health effects of synthetic chemicals, pesticides and antibiotics present in our food. As a consumer it is up to us to evaluate what we consider a healthy, sustainable option. Organic farming offers an alternative to conventional farming practices and one that may be beneficial for our health and the environment.

Organic farming methods work with nature through a system that promotes soil health, natural pest residence and biodiversity. It reduces the need for synthetic elements and aims to provide produce that is chemical free. This is not only a positive outcome for the consumer; it is great news for the planet.

Organic farming takes into account the effect agriculture has on the surrounding environment. It reduces pollution of our waterways and oceans by not relying on synthetic chemicals. Healthy soil practices maintain top soil, organic matter and help to limit soil erosion. By encouraging biodiversity organic farming works to sustains the variety of natural life and living organisms that make-up a healthy environment.

An organic standard promotes healthy soil, biodiversity, nutritious crops and considers animal welfare. It also encourages small independent farmers and gives us an opportunity to buy locally and sustainably and contribute to the economy of our local communities.

Are we willing to change our habits to the more sustainable practice of buying local, in season, organic produce?

Look for certified organic when shopping for fresh fruit and vegetables, wine, cooking oils, nuts, grains and an every growing variety of food stuffs. Support biodiversity and environmental stability by choosing products that contain certified organic ingredients.

You can also find organic alternatives in products made from cotton or that contain plant based ingredients such as essential oils or medicinal herbs.

Although these products may cost more at the checkout, what price are you willing to put on a positive, sustainable future? By choosing certified organic you are putting your consumer power behind a very positive change. The more support for these products the more pressure there is on producers to go organic.

For more information on small, simple ways we can all have a positive environmental impact visit Small Simple Life

Small.Simple.Life
Happy and Healthy, Ethical and Sustainable Living

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