Organics refers to the way we farm and/or process the food we eat daily.The concept of Organic Food is focused on the overall agricultural and procesing method rather than the actual chemical and physical properties of food.
In general Organic farmers and growers do not use synthetic pesticides, herbicides, or chemical fertilisers but rely on sustainable practices. These include crop rotation to disrupt habitats for pests, composting, energy conservation and soil erosion to provide long term protection of the soil, ecosystem and ground water supply.
Organic cultivators must have a 5 yearcrop and field history record, laboratory analysis for soil nutrients, and soil residues to ensure no contamination from a previous non-organic crop. An annual submision of an Organic system plan incorporating soil management, buffering between neighbouring farms pest control methods must be strictly followed.
Organic food unfortunately does cost more than conventional food. This should not be surprising as labour and intensive management must be substituted for the use of conventional chemicals and sprays. Additionally the costs reflect the necessity to clean up the water and soil of pesticides and other contaminants before Organic farming can even begin.
When an Organic crop has been planted, compost cover crops and naturally occuring biological organisms are used to maintain and nourish the soil. To keep weeds in check, farmers hand weed. use mulches and flame weed while pests can be controlled by birds, beneficial insects, insect predators and mating disruption.
Is Organic Food more nutritious? While a definitive study has not been done, studies indicate that Organics contain more vitamins and trace minerals. A recent (2002) report showed that Organic Food is far less likely to contain pesticide residues (13% of organic produce vs 71% conventional produce).
Is Organic Food tastier? While individual tastes will differ, many people prefer Organics not only for its superior taste and quality but to support a growing industry that rejects conventional processes and relies on the skill and hard work of dedicated people, who will work with respect and value he environment that we live in.
At Organic Bakeworks we use only 100% certified Organic Ingredients.
