The New York Times ran an informative piece in July 2012 on the corruption issues within organic food production (Stephanie Strom, “Organic Food Purists Worry About Big Companies’ Influence,” The New York Times, July 7, 2012). Big companies have gotten into the organic market for years because it makes big profits, and many corporations don’t care much about organic standards or genuinely healthy food.
They care about profits. Some organic-labeled producers are still happy to use additives and questionable practices, not worrying about pollution or the quality of the produce, as long as it protects the margin.
There are exceptions. Eden Organic (I love their beans) maintains real pride in their product and their standards.
As a consumer, it’s hard to know what to trust. My recommendation: skip the organic label debate and go directly to the farmer. Here’s why buying local beats both conventional and big-corporate “organic”:
Cuts down on greenhouse gases. Locally produced food doesn’t have to travel far, and it’s genuinely fresh, no refrigeration required for fruits and vegetables picked that same day.
Less pesticide and fertilizer runoff. Most (though not all) local farmers use organic or biodynamic practices, cutting down on the fertilizers and pesticides that are petroleum-based products and increase our dependence on oil.
Protects the oceans and rivers. Excess fertilizer runs off into streams and rivers, causing algae blooms that drastically reduce fish populations, which ultimately means less for all of us to eat.
Benefits small businesses and local economies. Buying local helps small family farms keep doing what they love, builds community, creates jobs, and grows the local economy.
It’s delicious and nutritious. Food that hasn’t traveled far and hasn’t sat in storage is more nutritious and simply tastes better.
It’s easy to start: go to your farmer’s market, or join a community-supported agriculture (CSA) group in your area. Here in NYC we’re lucky to have a great network of farmer’s markets and CSAs, including two on the Upper West Side close to my acupuncture clinic. See you at the markets.
