JOIN USWe all stress on the need to eat fruit and vegetables as part of our everyday diet, but how often do we ask ourselves if the food we are eating is safe? Do we know if it is free of bacteria, viruses, parasites, chemicals, other contaminants, which can cause over 200 diseases ranging from diarrhoea to cancer? Are we aware that the food we consume can contain pesticides and chemicals, making it harmful for human health?
Most of us have an accumulated build-up of pesticide exposure in our bodies because of many years of exposure. This chemical “body burden,” as it is medically known, could lead to health issues such as headaches, birth defects, and added strain on weakened immune systems.
Some studies have indicated that the use of pesticides, even at low doses, can increase the risk of certain cancers, such as leukaemia, lymphoma, brain tumours, breast cancer and prostate cancer.
Why organic?
“Organic” is fast becoming a lifestyle choice for enlightened Indians who are concerned about healthy living. In fact, eating organic and eating right is now becoming a growing need.
Organic food refers to food items that are prepared according to the norms set by an organic certifying body. Thus, organic food production does not involve the use of chemical fertilisers, pesticides or preservatives that make it last longer.
Furthermore, organic food is often sold locally, leading to the availability of fresh produce in the market, which usually tastes better than the produce that has been frozen, shipped, and transported across long distances.
Apart from directly influencing human health, organic farming also ensures a sustainable environment as it reduces pollution, conserves water, checks soil erosion, increases soil fertility and uses less energy.
In terms of nutrition, too, organic food is better. Organic food has more nutrients, vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, iron, magnesium and phosphorous, than conventionally produced food.
This is because, in organic farming, great emphasis is laid on nourishing the soil, which in turn helps grow healthy plants.
Healthy plants result in produce that is packed full of vitamins and minerals which lend flavour and goodness to our food.
The time allowed for the crops to grow patiently by not using chemical fertilisers is the final key to making it possible for organic crops to have much higher nutrition levels.
Pure food
In the wake of rising concerns over poor diet, increased junk food consumption and growing obesity levels, the acceptance of organic food provides a welcome relief.
Going organic and consuming pesticide-free food will eventually lead to a better health for us and for our families.
In fact, for children, pregnant women and other such vulnerable individuals, organic food seems like an ideal choice. It is healthy, nutritious and chemical-free, making the food safe and non-toxic.
An organic diet is not just about nutrition, it is the ‘art of eating’ — it reflects our attitude towards life and towards the world, because good food sustains life, bad food kills. For healthy growth, we need pure food.
Organic food is not only safe but also environment-friendly. Further, a pure organic diet fosters purity of mind, body and soul.
Growing organic food is, however, an involved and committed process. It demands a mindset and attitude towards sustainability. Organic farming adopts eco-friendly methods where the crops are cultivated using chemical-free green manures.
Even the organically-reared animals that produce milk, meat and eggs are fed with 100% natural food and maintained in a completely natural ambience. This helps maintain ecological balance and doesn’t pollute the environment.
There are times when one must look at the wider picture. And, when it comes to food, organic is the healthier way out as the benefits far outweigh the extra amount you spend on them. So embrace an organic life, give your health a boost and while you’re at it, earn some good deed points from Mother Earth, too.
(The writer is CEO, Sresta Natural Bio Products, 24 Mantra Organic)