WHY BUY ORGANIC
FRUITS & VEGETABLES?
WHY BUY ORGANIC
FRUITS & VEGETABLES?
To conduct its study of pesticide residues, Consumer Reports bought 1,000 pounds of tomatoes, peaches, apples and bell peppers - with some of each representing organic, conventional and green-growing techniques at locations around the country. The produce was tested for more than 300 synthetic pesticides. One quarter of the organic produce had pesticide residues on them. Seventy-seven percent of the conventional produce had residues. The article goes on to advise folks to wash conventional fruits and veggies with dish washing soap, rinse and eat. Or buy organic.
WHY BUY LOCAL ORGANIC FOODS
When you purchase sustainably grown foods, you are...
Building living soils
Sustainable farmers don't treat soil like dirt. Healthy soils are complex fragile communities, teeming with life. Natural nourishment to the growing plants, and protection from disease and erosion result from well-tended soils. These living soils feed crops more completely than chemical fertilizers, and provide a broad spectrum of micronutrients and trace minerals. inspiring better farmingThe success of our sustainable farmers encourages their neighbors -- and farmers all around the world -- to reduce reliance on agrichemicals. With sound, sensible stewardship, even depleted lands regain productivity. Sustainable agriculture is a vibrant demonstration of the Earth's regenerative strength, a hopeful sign for all environmental problems.
Inspiring better farming
The success of our sustainable farmers encourages their neighbors -- and farmers all around the world -- to reduce reliance on agrichemicals. With sound, sensible stewardship, even depleted lands regain productivity. Sustainable agriculture is a vibrant demonstration of the Earth's regenerative strength, a hopeful sign for all environmental problems.
Reversing global warming
Scientists estimate that nearly 15% of the globally warming gases currently overheating our atmosphere are caused by chemical agriculture. Lower input techniques, including building living soils, planting trees and cover crops (plants grown to enrich the soil) and managing waste by composting, will actually reduce global warming gases in the atmosphere.
Providing wildlife habitat
Sustainable farms co-exist peacefully with wildlife, and many farmers plant trees and other perennials for wild creatures. Sustainable crop gleanings provide a safe and necessary food source. From the polliwog to the bald eagle, the wildlife food chain is not broken by contaminating, lingering toxins.
Encouraging diversity
Raising a wide variety of plants and animals is at the heart of sustainable agriculture. Rotating crops and growing cover crops prevent pest infestations and plant diseases. Sustainable farmers propagate heritage and unusual varieties for taste and nutrition. This diversity helps ensure our future food and seed supply.
Honoring rural life and work
A legacy of healthy farms is essential for our children's future. Sustainable agriculture revitalizes country communities, providing an educational and recreational resource for us all. Organic farms are safe environments for farm families and farm workers.
Growing clean, healthy food
Grown and processed without chemicals, irradiation, or biotechnology, organic foods set the standard of excellence for safe, pure and delicious food. Written by: Carolina Farm Stewardship Association
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