Top 5 Benefits of Going Organic

We have all heard this term everywhere we go, haven't we ? We've even seen it on labels when we're grocery shopping. But what is it exactly ? How is it different from non-organic grown produces ? Lets break it down.

What is organic food ? Organic produces are products of organic farming where man made growth regulators, fertilizers, pesticides and many more hazardous additives are not used at all. Did you know that, the chemicals used in commercial farming not only feeds you with chemical in your body, the chemical residues make their way to pollute our waterways too ! So how do they farm ? Well, they use traditional methods of rotating crops and manuring with animals. Simply, organic farming and agriculture is an approach of production of food that is healthy not only for consumption but also environmentally friendly, socially and economically sustainable. Ofcourse, some may argue that (especially in Malaysia) going organic isn't as affordable as it is. Organic food is cheapest when bought directly from a farmer or producer, either via a box scheme, farmers market or farm shop. Buying local, organic food will often cost less than the non-organic equivalent. Unfortunately, most of us cannot access organic food directly from the producer and therefore it tends to be more expensive than the basic non-organic equivalent in the supermarkets. But maybe you're looking in the wrong place ?! Some organic products cost less than premium non-organic products. You might be pleasantly surprised.

Top 5 benefits of going organic 1. Environment

Since organic gardeners use no chemical pesticides, herbicides, or fertilizers, none of these chemicals can run off and find their way into the water supply. Another benefit of this lack of chemical run-off is that small animals, birds, and beneficial insects are not harmed by chemical use. Because organic gardeners are continually building up their soil with organic matter, there is less erosion of topsoil leading to general erosion, which can impact an entire area. By putting organic waste into compost, you are helping relieve landfills since the waste would otherwise be taking up space there.

2. Spiritual Ask any gardener, especially an organic gardener, what they think about while tilling the soil, planting seeds, or pulling weeds in their garden. You’ll probably get an answer similar to these: “it’s my time with my higher power,” “being in the garden brings me closer to nature” and “working in the soil and watching the garden grow makes me feel I am part of something larger” or “it’s meditative” and “my time of prayer.”

3. Health

An organic garden is free from toxic chemicals, which means that the produce is free also. Your fruits and vegetables will not have a chemical residue, which if not washed off thoroughly, will enter your body. Organic produce has also been shown to have a higher vitamin and mineral content than those grown with the use of chemical fertilizers, pesticides, and herbicides. By planting your own organic garden, you are assuring yourself and your family the best possible fruits and vegetables. Plus, you have the added benefit of exercise; from planting the seeds to carrying in the harvest, working in your garden will help tone your body and work off extra calories.

4. Taste

While many organic fruits and vegetables will not have the uniform look of those you purchase in a supermarket, they will have superior taste. A virtual explosion of flavor that bears little resemblance to the taste of commercially raised produce. Nothing tastes better than fresh fruits or vegetables straight off the vine, tree, or plant. For fruits and veggies that don’t have to be cooked, they can be tasted right there in the garden.

5. Money

Planting your own organic vegetable garden will save you money. That is something we all want to do. Buying organic produce at farmers markets and health food stores can cost up to 50% or more over the regular supermarket. By growing your own, you save money at the store, and in these days of rising fuel costs, you won’t have to make as many trips for the perishables. Preserving the excess will enable you to make your garden last long into the winter months without have to purchase ‘greenhouse’ vegetables from the store.

Growing and consuming organic 100% may be difficult, however, trying to do so is better thann not trying at all. We're all humans and we all need time and resources to adopt this lifestyle. Don't fret, slowly but surely. The pros are more than the cons. Lets strive for better health, wellbeing, environment and life !