Food in Ireland has become unhealthy, chemical dependent and highly processed. General stores are mass producing uni-seasonal homogenised produce and the permanent global summertime is not natural. Our nation’s health is suffering as a result of this over processed and unnatural food and our palates have become accustomed to fruit and vegetables which have little or no taste and which look artificially perfect.

Many products are packaged in environmentally unfriendly plastic and have also gained a massive carbon footprint by the time they reach their destination. All of this is bad news for us and for the environment.

It’s Healthy

Research continues to show that essential vitamins and minerals are higher in many organic foods. On average, organic food contains higher levels of vitamin C and essential minerals such as magnesium, iron and chromium as well as cancer fighting antioxidants. Both US and UK Government statistics indicate that levels of trace elements and minerals in fruit and vegetables fell by up to 76% between 1949 and 1991.

No Nasty Additives
Organic food doesn’t contain food additives, which can cause health problems such as heart disease, asthma, osteoporosis, migraines, food allergies and hyperactivity. Among the additives banned by organic regulations are hydrogenated fats, aspartame and monosodium glutamate and all artificial colourings, flavourings and sweeteners.

Avoids Pesticides
More than 400 chemical pesticides are routinely used in conventional farming. Residues of these pesticides are regularly found in a high percentage of fruit and vegetables, and in 2004 the European Commission stated that a risk to human health cannot be ruled out anymore.

No GM
Genetically modified organisms or crops are not allowed under organic standards.

Reliance on Drugs Removed
There is growing concern about the high use of antibiotics on farm animals and the possible risk to health. Organic standards prohibit the routine use of antibiotics.

No Hidden Costs
Compare this with the millions that tax payers fork out for removing chemicals from drinking water. This is mainly as a result of the pesticides and fertilizers used in conventional farming.

Highest Standards
Organic food comes from trusted sources. All organic farms and food companies are inspected at least once a year to establish the compliance with the Irish and European regulations.

Care for Animals
Animal welfare is a crucial and integral part of organic standards. The benefits of the organic approach are acknowledged by animal welfare organisations such as Compassion in World Farming.

Good for Wildlife
Research has shown that organic farming is better for wildlife, creates less pollution from sprays and produces less of the global warming gas carbon dioxide.

Top for Taste
Many people choose organic food because they say it tastes better.