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.

Whether you want to barbecue steak, chicken or fish, there’s a barbecue on the market that’s suitable for you.The barbecue is an important part of your summer social life. Whether you’re entertaining friends or simply enjoying a hot summers day with your family.

There is such a wide choice of barbecue models out there, from the small, disposable charcoal in tin foil type to the top of the range “Summit Weber barbecue”. When making your choice, remember that whatever barbecue you decide to go for may dictate the quality of your cooking results.

A bit of advice, only consider getting, say, a small 12 inch square griddle, if there is absolutely no chance that you will have to cook for a large party of hungry diners. If you think there may be a chance then don’t go for small!

Here are some important factors for you to consider before making your choice of barbecue.

1. What is your budget?

2. How many people will you be typically catering for?

3. How much room do you have in you garden for cooking?

4. Will you be able to store your barbecue away in the winter?

Find the answers to these questions and you will be in a good position to decide what type of barbecue to go for.If you are likely to be using it rarely and for few people then a disposable charcoal in a foil tray type may be just what you need. These are perfect for picnics, small get-togethers and cooking in small spaces. However, as I said before, if you are likely to be cooking on a more regular basis and for a lot of hungry diners then you need to think on a larger scale.

The choice is so wide that it’s important to think of the fundamentals when deciding.Is the cooking area on the barbecue large enough to hold all of the food you are likely to want to cook? Also bare in mind that you need room around your proposed outdoor space to store your marinades, sauces, drinks, crockery, accessories raw food and last but not least your hungry diners.

Do you have a shed or garage to store your barbecue in the winter? If so, is there enough space within? Does the barbecue seem sturdy enough to handle outdoor storage? Is it protected with corrosion resistant paint? You may want to consider investing in a cover for added protection. How easy is the barbecue to clean and maintain?
Whichever model you decide to choose, I’m sure that you will have endless hours of fun with your friends and family on those long hot summer days and evenings.