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What does organic mean?

16 Feb Posted by in Organic Lifestyle | 3 comments
What does organic mean?
 

In essence, organic foods are grown according to very strict production guidelines. There is no use of pesticides, man-made fertilizers, irradiation, genetic modification or sewage waste.

Organic meat, poultry, eggs and dairy is free of hormones and antibiotics.
Animals that produce meat, poultry, eggs, and dairy products do not take antibiotics or growth hormones.

Organic foods are produced according to certain production standards. In most countries, organic food production is strictly monitored and rigorous certification procedures are in place before a product can be labeled as “organic”.

It is true that many organic farms have been smaller and family-run in the past, with the result that organic food used to be available only at farmer’s markets or co-ops. AS the organic trend has grown, more and more corporations are getting in on the act e.g. Woolworths.

Organic farming relies on the action of biological agents like insects, worms and other organisms to maintain soil fertility. Nitrogen is added naturally by growing plants such as clover, and other nutrients come from natural compost and seaweed. This results in healthy soil which in turn results in healthy plants. Crops are also rotated to maintain soil fertility and to prevent the build up of insects, diseases and weeds.

When live stock is organically farmed, the highest possible care is taken to preserve the natural behaviour of the animals. Free range chickens and cows are allowed to move freely out doors in the fresh air where they eat a natural diet and properly cared for. The manure of these healthy animals is used on plants. No artificial fertilizers, pesticides or other agents are used, resulting in pure water and an unpolluted ecosystem.

The production of genetically modified crops is not permitted in organic farming.


Organic farmers are audited at least once a year by representatives of a certifying body to ensure all standards are maintained.

The benefits of organic products are:

  • Great taste
  • Environmentally friendly
  • Improved soil fertility
  • Improved water quality and purity
  • Conversation of natural ecosystems
  • Socially beneficial in rural areas since more labour is required
  • Long term impact on climate change is beneficial

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  1. Leon05-10-10

    Hi there……..I am looking for organic poultry meal??

    Regards…………LH

  2. Piet01-26-11

    Hi Tony,

    I like the post and love your blog. Seems that we have similar interests. Online marketing and organic stuff. Head on over to http://www.greenlove.co.za if you’d like to connect.

    Keep up the good work ;)

  3. Tony Lopes01-26-11

    Thanks Piet – http://www.greenlove.co.za looks great

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