What is organic?

‘Organic’ is a labelling term that refers to the way agricultural products are grown; promoting and enhancing biodiversity, biological cycles and soil biological activity. Production is based on maintaining and replenishing soil fertility without pesticides and fertilisers. Organic foods do not contain artificial ingredients, preservatives, or irradiation to help maintain the integrity of the food. Organic farming is based on minimal use of off-farm inputs and on management practices that restore, maintain and enhance ecological harmony.

What does "Certified Organic" mean?

"Certified Organic" means the producer has followed strict uniform standards that are verified by an independent organisation; in our case ACO. It involves inspections of farm fields and processing areas, standard record keeping, and periodic soil and water testing.

Why purchase organic foods?

1. Good for the taste buds - Organic food tastes great!
Taste is a matter of opinion but well-balanced soils full of regenerating goodness, help produce strong flavoursome foods. Organic foods often have a higher natural sugar content and less water to dilute flavours, and usually spend less time in storage.

2. Good for you. Organic fruit and vegetables have been shown in a number of studies to contain more vitamins, nutrients and cancer-fighting antioxidants than conventional food. Soil is the foundation of the food chain and healthy soil means healthy plants and food.

3. Good for the environment and natural resources. Organic systems aim to reduce dependence on the many non-renewable resources used in modern farming. Organic production aims to be sustainable whilst having best management of the environment and wildlife as a priority. The elimination of polluting chemicals and nitrogen leaching, done in combination with soil building, protects and conserves water resources.

4. Good for the next generation. General sustainability practices used in organic farming ensures the protection of the environment for future generations. Although sometimes cheaper at the register, conventional foods do not reflect the hidden costs to our governments of cleaning up pollution, fixing soil erosion and increasing health care. Chemical runoff and residues in waterways is one of the main causes of diminishing wildlife. Organic farming reduces landfill, captures CO2 in the soil and reduces greenhouse gas emissions.