It’s Organic September this month, the UK’s biggest celebration of organic living. so I thought it worth highlighting just a few of the many benefits of choosing organic products. 

A Day on the Farm (an Organic one!)

I was invited last month by The Soil Association to visit a wonderful organic farm – Sandy Lane Farm – just outside Thame. 

The 100 acre farm is run by husband and wife George and Cate Bennett and, I was delighted to learn, their veg box scheme even inspired the producers of The Archers to visit for research into Home Farm’s Veg Box scheme in my favourite soap.

We spent a fascinating day looking at the crops in the fields, seeing how the veg boxes are packed, and learning  about the whole organic movement. Then we were served the most delicious buffet lunch, prepared by Cate.

It’s Not Just Organic Food

As well, of course, as choosing to eat organic produce, I hadn’t really considered the other ways one can embrace the organic movement.

For example, a fascinating talk by Tabitha James Kraan of Tabitha JK hair products reminded us that our hair should be considered ‘another mouth’ in that we absorb chemicals into our body through our hair, skin and nails as well as our stomachs.  

Organic Cheese

Heather Taylor from Nettlebed Creamery   talked us through their range of organic artisan, award-winning, cheese, milk and kefir.: Bix; Witheridge and Highmoor.

Bix is like a French Chaource; Witheridge is aged in hay – the only cheese in the UK to be made like this.  And Highmoor was semi soft and deliciously tasty and smelly.

Love Organic

The Soil Association is inviting us to ‘Love Organic’.

The annual campaign is to inspire individuals and communities to embrace organic choices, underscoring the significant benefits for health, environment, and nature. 

As demand for sustainable and ethical products continues to grow – 41% of shoppers state considerations around environmental sustainability affect their food purchasing decisions “a fair amount” and 14% “to a large extent” (YouGov tracker Aug 2024) – Organic September  highlights the dedication behind creating exceptional organic products that benefit both people and the planet. 

Why Choose Organic?

Organic matters, because Organic farming is more than just a different way of farming; it represents a vital shift towards a healthier, more sustainable future.

Here’s why choosing organic is important: 

  • Fewer chemicals, more nature: Organic farming uses no artificial pesticides and avoids fossil-fuel based fertilisers, meaning fewer chemicals in your food and more space for nature to thrive. Healthier soil that stores more carbon, and more wildlife in our countryside. 
  • Better animal welfare: Organic farming prioritises animal welfare with the highest standards, providing conditions where animals can express natural behaviours, enjoy plenty of space, fresh air, and organic feed. It’s a farming approach that respects animals as living beings, not just products. 
  • Packed with goodness: Organic food has been found to be nutritionally different, with more antioxidants (including immune-supporting polyphenols) in organic fruit and vegetables and more beneficial omega-3 fatty acids in meat and dairy. This is largely due to the way it is produced. Plus, with no genetically modified organisms (GMOs), you can trust that your food is as natural as possible.
  • Fighting climate change: Organic farming works in harmony with nature. By focusing on healthy soils and natural processes, organic farms can store more carbon in the soil, use less energy, and emit fewer greenhouse gases. This benefits the planet today and secures a better future for our food. 
  • Doing good feels good: Choosing organic supports the planet, wildlife, and the health of future generations—and it feels great to know that your food is contributing to a better world for all. 

Flavour Says it All

What’s more, when I did a taste comparison between the vegetables that I brought back from Sandy Lane Farm and the supermarket standard issue, there really was such a difference in flavour.  The carrots, for example, were absolutely packed with flavour.  

It’s worth paying a premium, not just for better flavour, but for our own health, and the health of the land that we hold in trust for future generations.