Organic agriculture is not only a process of production, but also a value system that incorporates natural methods and renewable resources, excluding the use of chemical pesticides, herbicides, and fertilizers. Organic farmers work within the inherent balance of nature as partners with the land. The produce high quality products as well as support a healthy environment and maintain biodiversity. This value system promotes sustainability, environmental responsibility, and a deep respect for the relationship between man and nature.
Take an apple, for example. A conventional apple may be larger and more colourful than an organic apple, but the competition stops here. A consideration of quality beyond surface level shows that not only are organic foods more flavourful, but they also have higher nutritional value than their non-organic counterparts. Some conventional processes include acceleration of the growth of produce that changes the structure of the plant, resulting in an apple that is larger, but contains more water and fewer nutrients. The smaller organic apple has more substance in the form of a greater concentration of vitamins, minerals, and flavour. Studies have shown that organic fruits have approximately 28 percent more vitamin C, 18 percent more potassium, and 77 more iron. They also contain more anti-oxidants that aid in disease prevention and fiber, essential for digestive health. Hippocrates said "let your food be your medicine, and your medicine be your food". Eating organically is a perfect expression of this ancient aphorism. Not only does the organic apple contain more of the good stuff, it also comes without any of the nasty chemicals that are used in conventional farming. There are concerns that pesticides and insecticides could be linked to certain cancers and genetic abnormalities.
Instead, organic farming uses natural methods for pest and weed control and natural compost replaces artificial fertilizers . Even without the fear of the more serious health concerns, when you eat an organic apple, you know exactly what you are getting, with no unpronounceable chemicals to go with it. Your children can be free to safely pick an apple and eat it in the shade of the tree where it grew. You will be anxiety-free knowing that they are eating something fresh and completely natural.
Even without these arguments, the rich flavour and aroma of organic produce speaks for itself. A bite from an organically grown apple is a taste of nature. You can taste the warmth of the sunlight and the richness of the land that nurtured it. Knowing that you are eating the best quality produce brings you closer to natures harmonious balance. Human beings exist as part of that balance, as part of the community of plants and animals. Eating organically respects not only your own life, but the lives the other living things we depend upon.
