Green Food Guide

We love Organic

While the press and scientists still squabble over the pros and cons of organic food, food miles, and what to do about climate change, it’s understandable consumers are confused about what they can do. But other than the eco advantages to organic, there are plenty of reasons why we should buy more natural food. Chemical free The average conventionally-grown apple has a staggering 20-30 artificial poisons on its skin, even after washing. Yuk! Health Some studies have proved organic tomatoes deliver more vitamins and nutrients than non-organic varieties. A perfect excuse for a Bloody Marie. Be nice to animals and wildlife Organic farms support and promote local wildlife, protecting hedgerows, butterflies and wild mammals and their livestock has better living conditions. Just think of the karma if you are re-incarnated as a chicken! Money Your weekly shop might be cheaper if you don’t buy organic, but in the long run we have to pay to clear up the effect of agro-chemicals on our water supply. The expense of organic food is also a bit of a myth. On a quick surf of the Internet, I discovered Sainsburys So Organic Tikka Masala Sauce is £1.28 a jar while the same sauce by Sharwoods is £1.59. Reduce waste But if your food does turn out to be more expensive… studies have shown we are less likely to throw away food we have spent more money on. Buying from local farm shops and farmers markets also means less packaging – just freshly dug up vegetables dusted with soil – not pre-packaged in lots of plastic. All food doesn’t have to come with a trendy logo and expensive box – honest! Taste And finally - organic food if full of flavour, and much tastier than conventionally grown. And for you doubting-thomases out there – here’s the proof. My friend’s husband says so. Obviously it’s a personal opinion, but when she returned from a week at a detox spa, she enthused about the taste of organic food to her skeptical other-half. But after trying some alternatives, he has declared himself a convert. You’ll be shocked at how tasty food can actually be.