Organic living covers all aspects of life, ranging from food to clothing to skin care. In this article we will cover organic food, which has the largest impact on a green lifestyle.
Organic food is grown without synthetic substances for a minimum of 3 years. Forbidden synthetics include fertilizers, pesticides, insecticides, herbicides, fungicides, artificial flavors, colors, or hormones. Any food that has been irradiated or genetically modified is also excluded.
The United States Department of Agriculture has a tiered approach to organic labeling of food:
1. 100% Organic – Item contains only organic ingredients.
2. Organic – Item contains 95% or greater organic ingredients.
3. Made with Organic Ingredients – Item contains 70% or greater organic ingredients.
The major difference between organic horticulture and chemical horticulture is primarily in fertilizer and pesticide usage. Many studies have shown that pesticides can decrease fertility, increase cancer risk, and hurt the nervous system. Organic growers control pests through a series of steps that include choosing disease-resistant plants and encouraging beneficial insects to flourish.
Organic growers produce their own compost to fertilize their crops. They rely on the natural breakdown of organic matter, using manure and compost to replace soil nutrients. Rock powders provide additional soil amendments such as phosphorus, potassium, calcium, and other minerals.
Why should you go organic? Here are 10 reasons why:
1. Reduce toxic chemicals from our air, water, soil, and bodies
2. Protect children’s health and future generations
3. Reduce soil erosion
4. Great taste and truer flavor
5. Assist family farms
6. Avoid poor food science
7. Reduce fossil fuel burning
8. Promote biodiverse habitats
9. Protect farm workers from pesticide exposure
10. Reduce federal subsidies and environmental costs
Organic Food