What exactly is organic?
STRICT regulations, known as standards, define what organic farmers can and can't do.
Organic farming severely restricts the use of artificial chemical fertilisers and pesticides. Instead organic farmers rely on developing a healthy, fertile soil through crop rotation and growing a mixture of crops.
Animals are reared without the routine use of drugs, antibiotics and wormers common in intensive livestock farming.
Any organic product sold in the UKmust display a certification symbol or number, such as the Soil Association's organic symbol which appears on around 70 per cent of organic food produced here.
In 2006, organic food and drink sales in the UK nudged the £2 billion mark for the first time.
BUYING organic food doesn't have to break the bank, according to the Soil Association.
The national organization says its message during Organic Fortnight, which runs from September 9 to 21, is that it is possible to 'Love Your Planet, Choose Organic' on a budget.
Spokeswoman Clio Turton says: "By eating fresh, seasonal, local and organic fruit and veg with less - and all organic - meat, this will not only be cheaper than buying non-organic convenience food but will also have the added bonus of reducing your carbon footprint too.
"Organic food is not always more expensive it really depends on how and what you buy."
The Soil Association's tips for eating organic on a budget include:
* Go for local and seasonal organic produce
* Cook fresh fruit and veg from scratch
* Avoid over-packaged convenience foods
* Reduce your meat intake
* Use your leftovers imaginatively
* Buy your food from direct sources, such as your local farmers' market, co-op or your nearest vegetable box scheme
* Use herbs and spices to make a little go a long way.
Share
