Organic Or Local Food – Which is Better?

There is lots of information around about the benefits of organic produce. Not only is it better for the environment because production does not use harmful synthetic chemicals but it often tastes better because the food is fresh and in season.

But is it better to buy organic produce or local produce? Should we support organic producers who have taken steps to adopt more sustainable practices that reduce the use of petro-chemicals and pesticides, or should we support local farmers?It is a fair question and one with no right or wrong answer.

Organic food and other products like cotton are beneficial in that they are produced with more sustainable practices. Organic production does
not cause the pollution of our waterways from chemical runoff or the degradation of soil content from chemical burnout. Organic production does not require thousands of the worlds poorest and most vulnerable workers to work in appalling conditions, exposing themselves and their families to toxic chemical exposure and the risk of disease and premature death.

However, it s arguable that there may be less environmental benefit from organic products if we are importing organic food from say, Europe.The environmental impact of transporting the products may outweigh the benefit achieving through the organic production. It is madness that we would import organic olives oil from Italy or Spain in the belief that it is better for the environment when we have amazing organic olive groves in Australia and an enormous range of products to choose from.

There are also circumstances when non-organic food and products may be just as an environmentally-friendly choice, or even better. There are many small local producers who grow their own produce for their products and although not certified organic, farm in accordance with organic and biodynamic principles and not do use pesticides or other chemicals. They may make their own products and not use preservatives or other additives. Local farmers markets are a great way to find many amazing products that are direct from the farmer. Buying locally in this way supports these small producers, creating demand for their products which may eventually lead them to becoming certified organic. And the money you spend stays in the local community.

The ideal situation is to buy organic and local food. We are lucky enough in Australia to have so much choice and easy access to quality fresh, local and organic food.

Food for thought. Ultimately, the choice is yours to make.

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