10 Reasons for choosing to buy organic food

Ten good reasons for choosing organic produce.

1.  IT IS HEALTHY
Research continues to show that essential vitamins and minerals are higher in many organic foods. On average, organic food contains increased levels of many key nutrients which are essential for human health. Both US and UK Government statistics indicate that levels of trace elements and minerals in fruit and vegetables fell by up to 76% between 1949 and 1991.

2. NO NASTY ADDITIVES
Organic food doesn’t contain food additives which have been linked to health problems such a heart disease, asthma, osteoporosis, migraines, food allergies and hyperactivity. Among the additives banned by organic regulations are hydrogenated fats, aspartame and monosodium glutamate and all artificial colourings, flavourings and sweeteners

3. AVOIDS PESTICIDES
Pesticides are routinely used in conventional farming. Residues of these pesticides are regularly found in a high percentage of fruit and vegetables, and in 2004 the European Commission stated that a risk to human health cannot be ruled out anymore.

4. NO GM

Genetically modified organisms or crops are not allowed under organic standards.

5.  RELIANCE ON DRUGS REMOVED
There is growing concern about the high use of antibiotics on farm animals and the possible risk to health. Organic standards prohibit the routine use of antibiotics.

6. NO HIDDEN COSTS
Compare this with the millions that tax payers fork out for removing chemicals from drinking water. This is mainly as a result of the pesticides and fertilizers used in conventional farming.

7. HIGH STANDARDS
Organic food comes from trusted sources. All organic farms and food companies are inspected at least once a year to establish the compliance with the Irish and European regulations.

8. CARE FOR ANIMALS
Animal welfare is a crucial and integral part of organic standards.
The benefits of the organic approach are acknowledged by animal welfare organisations such as Compassion in World Farming.

9. GOOD FOR WILDLIFE
Research has shown that organic farming is better for wildlife, creates less pollution from sprays and produces less of the global warming gas carbon dioxide.

10. TOPS FOR TASTE:
Many people choose to consume organic food as they believe it tastes better.

 

Consumer Info

How does the Organic Trust ensure the integrity of organic food?

10 Reasons for choosing to buy organic food

Organic or Free Range - Is there a difference?

Organic Trust Submission re GM - February 2008

GMOs (genetically modified organisms) and Organic Production

Soil Nutrient Management for Irish Organic Agriculture

Management Tips

Clippings


A flavour of the type of articles and items you are likely to find in Clover magazine - the quarterly magazine for the professional organic producer - published by Organic Trust.
Clover Magazine



Organic Trust Ltd - An INAB accredited certification body - Reg. No. 6008