Ten years ago, organic food was dismissed as a passing fad. But consumers proved the pundits wrong and we now spend nearly £2 billion a year on organics. So what are the benefits of going organic for you and your family? We asked Helen Taylor at the Soil Association, the UK’s leading charity promoting sustainable organic farming, for the lowdown…
What’s the main benefit of buying organic?
Healthwise, studies have shown that organic fruit and veg contain higher levels of certain vitamins, essential minerals and antioxidants than non-organic produce. By choosing organic you can avoid exposure to pesticides. Organic produce is non-genetically modified and the groceries have fewer additives – among the many additives not permitted under Soil Association organic standards are hydrogenated fat (trans fats), aspartame, and monosodium glutamate. As well as this, organic farming involves higher animal welfare standards, protects wildlife, causes lower pollution from sprays and
produces less carbon dioxide, the main global warming gas. So there are plenty of compelling reasons to go organic.
How can I make sure the produce I buy really is organic?
To check that a product is organic, look for the certification body code (there are several certification bodies in the UK, the Soil Association’s code is Organic Certification UK5) or our symbol. This means that we have inspected everyone in the product supply chain, from farmers through to manufacturers, to check they are meeting organic standards. We conduct rigorous annual inspections of all the farms, food companies and retailers licensed with us – more than 4,000 inspections each year.
Why does organic food cost more than non-organic?
Organic fruit, vegetables and meat cost more to produce because they’re more labour intensive and take longer to grow. Some of the extra cost comes from higher animal welfare standards – animals are given more space to roam about, which means more land is needed. And because sprays and chemicals are avoided, organic farming often requires more traditional farming methods. But most consumers think these qualities are well worth paying for.
Is it true that buying organic food is worse for the environment as ingredients and produce are often flown in from all around the world?
We’re looking at ways to reduce the use of air freight, and Sainsbury’s is working hard to reduce organic imports – 90% of all its organic potatoes, apples, carrots and onions, and 100% of pork, beef and chicken is sourced in the UK. Organic farming typically uses 30% less energy than non-organic. Climate change-boosting artificial fertilisers are banned and, instead, organic farmers build fertility naturally using plants like clover. So eating organic food is one simple way to help tackle climate change.
Is there any point in eating some organic produce or do you have to be totally organic to feel the benefit?
There are definitely benefits in eating even partially organic. Eating some organic food reduces your exposure to pesticide residues, and increases the amount of vitamins, minerals and antioxidants in your diet.
Is it more important for children to eat organic than adults?
The nervous, circulatory and reproductive systems all develop fast in children and it’s vital that there’s nothing to disrupt them during the growth phase. On top of this, until six years of age, a child’s body contains more water than an adult’s, which makes it easier for water-soluble pesticides to circulate. Buying organic is one way to reduce the chances that the food you and your family eat contains pesticides, as well as additives.
What are the most popular organic items that people shop for?
People tend to choose “primary produce” like fruit and veg, dairy products (especially milk) and meat. Organic baby food is the biggest-selling organic food, and nearly half of all baby and toddler finger food sold is organic. Other organic products are becoming more popular because people want to extend their organic lifestyles beyond the food they eat into areas such as skincare.
Are there any particular benefits in buying organic baby food?
All baby food – organic or otherwise – is covered by special legislation. Preservatives, colourings and added salt are forbidden because babies can’t process them. Many parents choose organic for peace of mind. In fact, having a baby is one of the biggest triggers for people going organic.
Will buying organic toiletries help protect my children from allergies?
It will help. Synthetic fragrances are not permitted in Soil Association certified organic baby products, as they are one of the causes of allergies from cosmetics. Children’s shampoo and bath products often contain foaming agents like sodium lauryl sulphate, which can be a skin irritant. Many people say they choose organic skincare products because they believe they work better on sensitive skin.
For more information on organic products, visit www.soilassociation.org
