Organics
What is organic?
In the most basic sense, “organic” means “grown”, or “raised naturally”. Being “organic” is being sustainable - organic growing improves soil nutrition, structure and fertility and optimises biological cycles. Most importantly it maintains and improves the present environment for future production.
“Organic” indicates that the product is grown or raised with Mother Nature's health in mind. For crops, this means that no chemicals (for example, pesticides), sewage sludge, radiation, or genetic engineering are used on the product. For growing, sustainable practice includes composting, crop rotation, and choosing plants which are suited to the region.
Organic products are found to be considerably more labour-intensive than traditional crops. Organic farmers cannot use low-cost shortcuts like pesticides and herbicides; they expend extra effort and time to get rid of pests and weeds naturally (for example, by using natural predators and weeding manually). Combined with lower yields for organic products, this may mean a higher price at the check-out; however this does not take into account environmental costs, which in the long run are a lot more expensive.
Organic products are better for humans, animals, and the Earth. They don't contribute to pollution, they promote humane treatment, and they contain only what nature meant for them to have - no chemical residues, growth hormones, or "Frankenfoods”. They are sustainable products which can also be enjoyed by future generations.
Natural vs Organic
The food industry uses the term “natural” to indicate that a food has been minimally processed and is preservative free.
Natural foods can include organic foods but not all natural foods are organic.
Superior nutritional value of Organic
There’s now a substantial body of evidence (around 40 studies published over the last six years) that proves organic plant-based foods are better for you, providing on average 25% more nutrition than their non-organic counterparts. Organic fruit contains up to 40% more antioxidants, which scientists believe can cut the risk of heart disease and cancer. It also has higher levels of vitamin C and beneficial minerals such as iron and zinc.
Organic farming methods respect the earth & natural animals. Organic products available through Aozora are apples, squash, kiwifruit and maize.
