What is organic Food?

   Organic food is produced by farmers who emphasize the use of renewable resources and the conservation of soil and water to enhance environmental quality for future generations.
   Organic meat, poultry, eggs, and dairy products come from animals that are given no antibiotics or growth hormones.
   Organic food is produced without using most conventional pesticides, and without fertilizers made with synthetic ingredients or sewage sludge, bioengineering or ionizing radiation.

Below are 10 of the many reasons why to chose organic.

1. It's healthy
   On average, organic food contains higher levels of vitamin C and essential minerals such as calcium, magnesium, iron and chromium as well as cancer-fighting antioxidants.
2. No nasty additives
   Organic food doesn't contain food additives which can cause health problems such as heart disease, osteoporosis, migraines and hyperactivity. Amongst the many harmful additives are hydrogenated fat, aspartame (artificial sweetener) and monosodium glutamate.
3. Avoids pesticides
   Over 400 chemical pesticides are routinely used in conventional farming and residues are often present in non-organic food. The government has recently found high levels of pesticide residues in baby food, spinach, dried fruit, bread, apples, celery, and chips.
4. No GM
   Genetically modified (GM) crops and ingredients 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 effects on human health. Organic standards prohibit the routine use of antibiotics.
6. No hidden costs
   Compare this with the amount of money that taxpayers fork out to pay for removing chemicals from drinking water, mainly as a result of the pesticides used in farming.
7. High standards
   Organic food comes from trusted sources. All organic farms and food companies are inspected at least once a year. The standards for organic food are laid down in the law.
8. Care for animals
   Animal welfare is taken very seriously under organic standards. The benefits of the organic approach are acknowledged by animal welfare organizations.
9. Good for wildlife and the environment
   The government has said that organic farming is better for wildlife, causes lower pollution from sprays, produces less carbon dioxide - the main global warming gas - and less dangerous wastes.
10. Top for taste
   Many people prefer organic food because they say it tastes better. A number of top chefs choose organic.

But, don't take our word for it.

   Go to the Soil Association website for even more information.