Simply put, organic means synthetic herbicides, pesticides, or chemicals aren’t used. Instead, food is grown naturally.
This principle is applied throughout the entire organic supply chain, from the farm through to processing.
It’s also important to remember organic products extend beyond what you eat and drink. Today, it is possible to buy clothing made from organic textiles such as cotton, silk and wool or use skincare products created using natural, organically produced ingredients.
This Australian Organic Awareness Month, we’re encouraging consumers to find out more about organic, including what organic means, how it is priced, how it is healthier and how it is beneficial for animals. So, what does organic mean?
Chemical-free
Organic farming works with the environment and is focused on sustainable production practices, soil health, land regeneration, and the protection of biodiversity.
When a product is certified organic, it means the item has been grown or produced without synthetic fertilisers, pesticides or herbicides and that no artificial colours or preservatives are used in the finishing process. Organic certification ensures all aspects of the product – from seed to packet – are compliant with organic protocols.
Not only does this mean less chemicals in food but also less chemical runoff from farms, which is much better for the environment. Organic production relies on continually improving soil health and increasing organic matter.
High standard of animal welfare
Meat and poultry can also be certified organic. To be certified, animals must roam freely in paddocks, interacting as they would in nature with ample access to pasture, shade and shelter. The animals’ diets are natural and free of chemicals, and throughout their lives, organic animals are not subjected to routine treatments of antibiotics, hormones or other chemicals.
Check certification
The only way to know if a product or produce is truly organic, is to check for a certification label. By buying certified organic products, consumers can trust what they are buying has undergone rigorous auditing and assessment by a government-approved certification body, to ensure they adhere to an organic Standard. This includes every aspect of production and manufacturing, right down to the packaging.
