There are so many resources on planet Earth that make our daily lives so much easier. But we should remember to squander them slowly. iGreen.lv aims to protect our planet and its resources as much as possible. 

In this endeavor, the study of organic food and its importance fits seamlessly with responsible and sustainable living ethics. It is supporting choices that contribute to our well-being and the environment. This article will outline the key factors everyone should know about organic food.

What should I understand about organic food?

Organic food goes beyond traditional farming and food production, supporting the age-old principles of sourcing food. It avoids the use of synthetic substances such as pesticides and fertilisers and the use of genetically modified organisms (GMOs).

It is not just about what we eat. It is a broader understanding that combines consumer welfare, the health of our planet, and an agricultural approach. Choosing organic food is not only a choice to eat certain products. It is also a commitment to a position that harmoniously combines environmentally friendly farming practices with care for our bodies and the environment.

By respecting the rhythms of nature and traditional farming methods, organic farming highlights and supports biodiversity. However, it promotes sustainable soil health and respects the delicate balance of our ecosystems.

Advantages of choosing organic products

Choosing organic food is not only about personal health benefits but also about greater environmental sustainability, reduced exposure to harmful chemicals, higher nutritional value, and a healthier ecosystem.

How does it work?

• Higher nutritional value: Research shows that organic produce can contain higher levels of certain nutrients and antioxidants that contribute to better health.
• Environmental impact: Organic farming methods reduce soil erosion, maintain higher levels of biodiversity, and reduce environmental pollution, preserving the diversity of ecosystems.
• Health: By avoiding synthetic chemicals in the production process, organic food reduces the presence of potentially harmful pesticides and additives in food products.

Choosing organic food is not only a choice to eat certain products. Also, commit to a position that harmoniously combines environmentally friendly farming practices with care for our bodies and the environment.

By respecting the rhythms of nature and traditional farming methods, organic farming highlights and supports biodiversity promotes sustainable soil health, and respects the delicate balance of our ecosystems.

Differences between organically and conventionally produced products

The difference between organically and conventionally grown products explains the stark contrast in farming practices. It is stressed that conventional farming uses synthetic inputs to achieve the producer’s wishes.

For example, they are producing more rather than better quality, getting larger product sizes, or harvesting faster. On the other hand, organic farming focuses on natural production methods with minimal intervention in the production process.

Characteristics of the differences:

• Pesticide use: Conventional farming uses synthetic pesticides to a large extent. In contrast, organic farming uses natural methods such as crop rotation (a sequence of crops on a farm where the primary purpose of the cropping sequence is to control weeds, plant diseases, and pests) to control pests.
• Fertilisers: Organic farming avoids synthetic fertilisers and uses compost and organic matter to enrich soil fertility.
• Genetic modification: Unlike conventional products, organic farming prohibits using genetically modified organisms (GMOs).

Environmental and health impacts of organic farming

Organic farming practices ensure healthy production and maintain soil health and water quality. The safety of farm workers is essential while reducing the environmental impact of farming.

Impact characterization:

• Soil health: Organic farming practices improve soil structure, fertility, and micro-organism diversity, maintaining ecosystem health.
• Water quality: Reduced release of chemicals into groundwater aquifers from organic farms improves water quality, protecting aquatic ecosystems and human safety and health.
• Worker safety: Using pesticides in intensive agriculture also contributes to their impact on human health. People do not wear protective masks, inhale harmful substances, and can develop various diseases in the long term. Reducing the release of harmful pesticides into the soil and the environment is a priority for organic farming, ensuring the safety and well-being of workers.

Other aspects of the organic food trend

With sustainability development, trends in the organic products movement, such as promoting local and seasonal products, are becoming more widespread. As well as a focus on agricultural areas characterised by recycling and reuse processes. This reflects a shift towards intelligent consumption and responsible farming practices.

Other bonuses of organic farming:

• Local and seasonal products: Using local and seasonal organic products supports regional agriculture and reduces carbon emissions by transplanting products from other countries.
• Renewable agriculture: Increasing focus on regenerative practices that restore soil health and promote carbon and nitrogen sequestration. For example, after growing grain crops, sow nitrogen-fixing crops (e.g., beans) in the same field the following season, thus replenishing the soil with minerals.

The path to responsible living

iGreen.lv readers focusing on eco-friendly products and responsible living, understanding the nuances of organic food. Organic food is in line with our commitment to a sustainable environment. We are not only prioritizing our well-being but also contributing to the health and vitality of our planet.

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Let us continue to research and advocate for organic food, recognizing its role in promoting a healthier and more sustainable future for us and future generations