I often get asked the questions about organic produce. The word “organic” often comes with a price, in more ways than one. First off, organic is often more pricey produce, simply based on the fact that anything that is organically labeled had to have been produced in an organically certified production process, from farm to mouth. The cost of being certified then gets dissipated over the cost of the end product. The other reason I say organic comes with a price, has nothing to do with finances at all, but rather a political slant which unfortunately minimizes the goodness of the philosophy of organic, by skeptics concerned that the government has something up their sleeve. Hopefully a quick and dirty history can make this debate more understandable for the consumers point of view, and then of course more affordable…. Hence my thoughts on local farmers markets being a decent inbetween solution.
So what then is the definition of Organic farming:
Very basically it is “farming without the use of synthesized chemicals (such as fertilizers and pesticides).”
Based on this definition, historically this was the only option farmers had. However, with technological advancement in farming, just like in most areas, more useful and efficient methods are constantly being developed and improved on. But for agricultural production the economic benefits that may be gained by technology has also introduced environmental and social detriments.
Today, Organic Agriculture seeks out methods to utilize technological advances that consistently yield benefits (such as new varieties of crops; precision technologies; more efficient machinery) while discarding those methods that have led to negative impacts on society and the environment, such as pesticide pollution and insect pest resistance and the horror of genetically modified organisms (GMOs). GMOs constitute synthetic inputs and pose unknown risks,
The debate of posing a limit to production versus farming organically is therefore widespread. So much so, that politics has to play a role. The consumer has rights and therefore if chooses, should be able to purchase organic produce. This consequence needed laws and labels to certify organic farming.
So now, with a price, we have a choice to purchase organic, and organic farmers have a choice to certifiy their produce organic, under strict restraints. For example: GMOs, such as herbicide-resistant seeds, plants, and product ingredients, like GM-lecithin, are disallowed in organic agriculture.
Instead of using synthetic fertilizers and pesticides, organic farmers utilize crop rotations, cover crops, and natural-based products to maintain or enhance soil fertility. These farmers rely on biological, cultural and physical methods to limit pest expansion and increase populations of beneficial insects on their farm. There are many other laws to be followed by a farmer before they can label their produce organic.
This is all very well and good, and makes us really want to support Organic produce for our health, but the needing to be organically certified before labeling a product organic has caused an increase in cost of production, reflective of cost of final produce.
One great solution for both farmers and consumers is to support local Farmers markets, and here are various reasons… the main one being that these smaller companies cannot afford to got through organic certification, so they do not label their produce organic. Their philosophy can be boiled down to “It is not merely the label that states no pesticides/chemicals, etc used… but their farming principles are by true definition, organic”
Other than allowing organic producers to sell their great product without having to deal with all these politics, here is a list of the many other reasons to support your local farmers markets!!
Farmers markets are easy to find.
Use the USDA Farmers Markets Search (http://search.ams.usda.gov/farmersmarkets/) to find one near you. Due to their flexible locations, some community farmers markets provide fresh, healthy foods when other sources aren’t as easily accessed.
SNAP and WIC cards are accepted at most farmers markets.
You can try a new fruit or vegetable! — Have you ever tasted gooseberries or rhubarb? Many farmers markets offer lesser known fruits and vegetables, providing a variety that can be both tasty and nutritious. Learn how to select the best quality, how to store, and about the nutritional values of these rarer fruits and vegetables (and some common ones, too)
Farmers often have good recommendations on ways to prepare their products.
Buy foods and see how they fit with a healthy nutrition plan — Create a healthy plate with goodies from your local farmers market. Visit different booths to pick up seasonal fruits and vegetables, as well as local dairy, grain and protein products so you can build your healthy plate
Farmers markets can be important anchors for vibrant communities. — Meet your local farmers, learn about foods grown in your area and catch up with friends and neighbors while stocking up with local goods. Supporting your local farmers market strengthens your community.
It’s a great way to get kids involved. — Let them pick out something new to try, then they can help prepare a meal or snack.
Fresh fruit and vegetables are full of antioxidants and phytonutrients.
Shopping at farmers markets supports your local farmers and keeps the money you spend closer to your neighborhood.
Freshly picked ripe food is at its peak in flavor and nutrition. — Stop by your local farmers market today, learn about where your food comes from, and enjoy some delicious and nutritious food.
