What is organic food?
In one sense all food is organic, because it has come from plants or animals. However for some fifty years the word organic has been used to describe food grown without most artificial fertilisers or pesticides and in a way that emphasises crop rotation, making the most of natural fertilisers and ensuring that the life of the soil is maintained. Animals are kept in ways which minimise the need for medicines and other chemical treatments.
Organic refers not to the food itself, but how it is produced. Organic food production is based on a system of farming that maintains and replenishes the fertility of the soil. Organic foods are produced without the use of synthetic pesticides and fertilizers. Organic foods are minimally processed to maintain the integrity of the food without artificial ingredients, preservatives or irradiation.
Organic refers to an “earth friendly” and health-supportive method of farming and processing foods. Weeds and pests are controlled using environmentally sound practices that sustain our personal health and the health of our planet. The term “organic” applies to both animal and plant foods. Organic farmers do not use chemicals (pesticides, fungicides or fertilizers) in an environmentally harmful manner. They utilize a blend of old and new technologies and scientific research to balance the earth’s natural ecosystem.
Organic agriculture uses environmentally-friendly farming methods. Organic foods are not only good for the environment – they are healthier and tastier too. Here are some of the main features of organic farming: • Organic farming avoids artificial chemical fertilisers and pesticides. • Instead, organic farmers rely on developing a healthy, fertile soil and growing a mixture of crops. • Organic animals are reared without the routine use of drugs, antibiotics and to high animal welfare standards. • Organic farming bans any use of GE organisms. The term organic is carefully controlled by a number of certification bodies who check and enforce high environmental standards. In Australia, look out for organic certification symbols from one of these bodies: Demeter, Australian Certified Organic, National Association of Sustainable Agriculture Australia, Organic Food Chain and Tasmania Organic-Dynamic Producers. Going organic can be a way of life. Organic clothing, cosmetics, gardening products
