Green Bugs

Healthy eating is the order of the day thanks to the recent surge of information and interest on the subject. We now all know that the recipe of good health is doing regular exercise and eating your five a day as part of a nutritious balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals. Last year’s 30% growth of organic food sales indicates a clear correlation with this healthy trend. So why are people going organic?

The health benefits are usually the main reason for choosing organic. Early results of a recent European research study suggest that organic food provides higher amounts of vitamins, antioxidants and minerals (iron and Zinc in particular). These findings influence in particular parents’ buying patterns who are going organic in the interest of their children’s health. Indeed, organic represents half of all baby food sold.

Another advantage of tasting organic food is that it has a much better flavour than conventional alternatives. The aroma is stronger due to the natural and slow growing process. The high quality of the food is guaranteed by organic standards, which ensure that there are no additives, no genetically modified ingredients, that the food is not contaminated by heavy use of chemical pesticides or fertilisers and that no drugs are used to rear live stock. A result of following these standards means that organic farming is a lot slower that conventional methods, it is harder and it is also less profitable because of the lower productivity. This is about quality rather than quantity, which is why organic food tends to be offered at a premium.

Finally, going organic also promotes sustainable agriculture and farming, animals’ welfare and it reduces your environmental impact. Due to the lack of chemicals or fertilisers, there is less pollution and dangerous waste residues, which is also better for wildlife too. However, to lower your environmental footprint you need to check food’s origin. If it has been shipped from abroad, the air miles will counteract the environment benefits of being organic. Therefore, it is best to buy from your local suppliers, or at least check the labels and buy British whenever possible.

The Soil Association is the main organic regulator in the UK and their logo is on all certified products which meet their standard. Therefore it is best to look for their symbol  in order to verify organic integrity. You can also check their website www.soilassociation.org for more information about organic regulation.

It is now clear that the major health benefits, the much better taste, the lower environmental impact and supporting of the local community are all reasons to choose organic. It is also true that it is not yet always possible to go completely organic due to product availability or budget. However, we can all take small steps towards an organic lifestyle. Embracing the decisions to buy natural ingredients locally or produce the organic food yourself are positive healthy choices for you and your purse too.

To save money, why not experience the ultimate organic food and have a go at growing your own? Think how satisfying it can be to eat something tasty and fresh that you have planted, cultivated and picked yourself. If you have children, you could try to involve them with the gardening as it is a great way to learn about nature and it can encourage them to eat more fruits and vegetables. In addition, how would you like everyday low cost quality fresh eggs? You could rear your own hens, it is great fun, great value and you get new pets as well. Sounds great!

RESOURCES:

If you are not sure where to start, you can get advice and manuals on organic gardening and chicken breading on the WIKANIKO website. They can also provide you with organic seeds, along with various natural gardening treating products and tools.

FORUM:

For all of you having a go at organic gardening and chicken breading, we would be very interested in hearing from you. Please share your experience and tips with us, plus any questions that you may have on the subject. Thanks!