“Organic” has been a buzzword in the food industry for some time now. But do you know what it really means? Once you know the benefits associated with organic farming, it is unlikely you’ll ever buy anything else.
Organic food is better for you and for your community. Keep reading to find out the top seven benefits of organic food.
1. More Nutrient-Rich
Organic food is richer in nutrients than its non-organic counterparts. This means higher levels of antioxidants and Vitamin C. For many people, this is the reason they’re eating fruits and vegetables in the first place.
In addition to being better for you, many people say they can taste the difference. Eating healthy, organic vegetables means you’re getting more flavor and more nutrients.
2. Lower Risk of Pesticide Residues
Organic growers use natural pesticides like compost. But non-organic growers use synthetic pesticides.
These pesticides are highly toxic, and consuming them can make you sick. You can greatly reduce your risk of pesticide-related illness if you eat organic.
3. Better for the Farmer
Those synthetic pesticides don’t just pose a risk for you. They are also a health risk for your farmer. Supporting organic farming practices promote a safer environment for the farmer.
For a healthier lifestyle for you and your farmer, shop at the Farmer’s Market or order from your favorite organic to go restaurant.
4. Better for the Soil
One of the benefits of organic food is that it creates richer soil. Soil health is important because over time, non-organic farming will make land unusable.
There is a limited supply of farmable land on this planet. So it’s important to take care of the soil we have.
5. Promotes Biodiversity
Since organic growers don’t use synthetic pesticides, they get rid of pests using natural methods. These strategies include cover crops and pollinator fields. Using alternative methods like this promotes biodiversity.
Biodiversity is essential to a healthy ecosystem. That means that living a healthy lifestyle is better for the environment.
6. Smaller Carbon Footprint
Organic farming sequesters carbon in the soil. Therefore, organic farming actually produces less carbon overall than non-organic operations.
Since climate change is such a pressing issue, organic farming is one way you can shrink your carbon footprint.
7. Often Local
This isn’t always true, but organic farms often tend to be smaller operations. There are a lot of benefits to eating organic food that is locally grown.
For one thing, it supports small businesses. It keeps your money in your local economy, which means the whole community benefits.
Second of all, many fruits and vegetables from the grocery store are trucked in from across the country. Think of all the fossil fuels that transportation releases into the atmosphere. By buying locally grown organic food, you decrease the amount of carbon in your personal food chain.
The Benefits of Organic Food
There are many more benefits of organic food. All in all, eating organic is better for you, for your community, and for the environment.
When possible, buy organic food from your grocery store or favorite restaurant. Interested in learning how to cook organic fruits and vegetables? Check out our Recipe section to learn more.
