Regular viewers of Aamir Khan’s Satyamev Jayate might remember the episode on chemical farming and pesticides in our food, which was telecast in 2012. More recently, reports like this one indicate that there are inordinately high levels of pesticides in most of our common consumables! While such news gets attention for a while, slowly it all settles down and most folks go back to their regular way of life and the local vegetable vendors and grocery stores. Some consumers though, took such media reports as a validation that they needed to seriously consider organic food.
What is Organic?
Food labeled organic is grown and processed without being supplemented by chemical fertilizers, pesticides or additives. The farmers might make use of organic supplements such as manure or compost.
While most brands of organic groceries and vegetables remain more expensive than non-organic versions, here are five reasons why people go for this choice:
- No pesticides or chemicals: For many organic food consumers, the absence of dangerous pesticides is a definite plus and a way to ward off many health problems. Ideally foods sold in the market should not contain dangerous residues, but when regulation and enforcement is lax it can become an issue.
- Nutrition: Many consumers of organic food believe that organically grown fruits and vegetables are more nutritious and an ideal choice for families. While scientific studies have not found clear evidence for this, consumers feel that it is better to be cautious. Parents with growing children would especially be concerned with the nutrient value of foods.
- Know the source: Some consumers choose organic food because they want to understand where their food is coming from. Buying from a local farmer at organic markets would be the best choice where vegetables and fruits are concerned. For other grains and staples, many certified brands mention the origin on the packaging.
- Environmental concerns: Organically cultivated land is supposed to remain vibrant and healthy with microorganisms without depending on chemical supplement. Also, since many organic fruits and vegetables are not treated with preservatives like wax, they spoil faster and cannot be transported very far, reducing their carbon footprint. This can lead to more seasonal consumption, which then also leads to the preservation of local varieties.
- Humane Treatment: Many suppliers of organic milk and eggs also promise humane treatment and good living conditions for the animals and birds involved. Non-organic meat products come from animals that are sometimes force-fed or fed other animal products and given antibiotics and hormones. Organic food offers a way for people to avoid such meat products.
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