Organic food is made up of factors such as more species-appropriate animal husbandry, regionality, low levels of pollution, and as few additives as possible. Its contribution to environmental protection is also an important feature.
The terms “organic” and “eco” are legally protected terms. Foods labeled as “organic” or “eco” have been produced and processed per the guidelines of organic farming. These other terms may only be used for organic products:
- biological
- ecologically
- controlled organic
- controlled ecologically
- organic farming
- organic farming
Terms such as “integrated farming”, “natural” or “controlled” do not refer to organic products.
Are organic foods healthier?
Organic foods sometimes have a higher nutrient density than conventionally produced products. When produced according to organic standards, organic foods such as apples or potatoes contain less water and, therefore, proportionately more nutrients. They also contain more vitamins, such as vitamin C. They are richer in so-called secondary plant substances, which neutralize aggressive substances in the body and can thus help protect against cardiovascular diseases or cancer. A look at organic meat also shows that if the animals are allowed more space to roam and are fed fresh grass and herbs fresh from the pasture, the fatty acids contained in their meat have a healthier composition.
Since little or no pesticides are used in organic farming, organic foods contain virtually no residues. They also contain fewer pesticides. Organic grain also tends to contain fewer mold fungi than grain from conventional farming. Organic vegetables, in turn, usually contain fewer harmful nitrates.
How sustainable are organic foods?
Conventionally produced foods are not subject to the same strict regulations as organic foods. They harm the environment through high nitrate levels, residues of chemical-synthetic pesticides, and antibiotic resistance in animals and humans.
The production of organic food places far less strain on nature :
- By avoiding the use of artificial fertilizers, the climate and groundwater are less stressed than in conventional agriculture.
- Greenhouse gases are saved.
- Energy consumption is up to 40 percent lower.
- Meat from organically raised animals requires less imported feed, which protects the rainforest, which is cut down for soy feed production.
- Organically managed soils can store more water, contain more humus, and be healthier.
- Ecologically managed natural areas are more affluent in species because animals and plants find optimal conditions in their natural habitats.