What does organic mean?

Organic can apply to all types of foods, clothing and house wares. Growing, processing and handling food organically means to do so in healthy and ecologically sound ways. Generally, organic is thought of as not using toxic fertilizers and pesticides.

Why are more people choosing organic?

Food safety:

Organic farmers, as far as possible, avoid using unnecessary chemical sprays. Food additives linked to asthma, allergies, ADHD and heart disease are among those banned under organic standards.

The environment:

Organic farming is friendlier to the environment so there is a much greater diversity of birds, butterflies and plants on organic farms. Organic standards ban the use of GM (genetically modified) technology.

Animal welfare:

Organic farming requires animals to be kept in more natural, free-range conditions with a more natural diet.

Taste:

Many people tell us they buy organic food because they believe it tastes better.

So, why do I pay more for organic than the regular food? Shouldn’t it be the other way around?

Regular farmers, through the use of chemicals and genetically modified seeds and plants (which they were mostly forced to do to stay competitive), are able to utilize larger acreages and therefore offer cheaper prices. Not using artificial help translates into more work for organic farmers, by picking up bugs by hand from the plants or more planning before the planting (mint is planted with cabbage, so the white cabbage moth is naturally repelled). Since there are only a small but growing number of organic farmers, it is oftentimes difficult and/or costly to have the products shipped to your local stores.