As September brings fresh beginnings with the arrival of spring, it’s the perfect time to switch things up and start living healthier. By choosing organic foods and products, you’re not just making a smart choice for your health – you’re also doing your bit for the planet.
Organic isn’t just a fancy label; it’s about making a commitment to better health, fairness, and taking care of the environment.
Organic farming helps protect our soil, water, and biodiversity, supports local businesses, and boosts food security in South Africa. It’s about backing farmers who care about the earth and making sure what you eat is top quality and responsibly produced.
Why organic? It’s more than just food
“Organic farming is more than just avoiding pesticides and herbicides – it’s a whole way of life that nurtures the soil, supports ecosystems, and benefits everyone who eats the food,” says Matthew Purkis, head of joint operations at the South African Organic Sector Organisation (SAOSO) and Participatory Guarantee System South Africa (PGS SA).
“The Choose Organic campaign is all about getting you to think about the impact of your choices. By buying PGS-certified products, you’re supporting local farmers who are dedicated to their communities and the environment. This is the future of farming. Be a part of it,” Purkis encourages.
Support local farmers and traditional knowledge
PGS SA reports that there are 18 PGS groups across South Africa, with thousands of organic farmers involved. These farmers use traditional methods to grow crops sustainably, preserve our biodiversity, and protect the environment.
Maxabandile Mlauli, a farmer from the Eastern Cape and co-founder of the Mount Frere PGS group, shares, “I’ve found my passion in organic farming and agroecology. It’s all about healing both people and the land. Our action plan focuses on food self-sustainability and fighting poverty through teamwork in Mount Frere.”
Siphiwe Sithole, founder of African Marmalade and an organic farmer, is all about keeping traditional practices alive and bringing back old-school crops from across Africa.
“I’m inspired by the simple, healthy meals my ancestors used to make. Growing organically with these time-tested methods is incredibly fulfilling,” says Sithole.
Organic food: Better for your health
Choosing organic food is also a smart move for your health. Organic farming skips synthetic pesticides, herbicides, and GMOs, which means the food you eat is free from harmful chemicals. A study by Harvard University found that switching to organic can significantly reduce pesticide levels in your body in just one week.
Plus, organic produce often has more nutrients. Research from Newcastle University shows that organic fruits and veggies pack higher levels of antioxidants and essential nutrients.
“Organic living supports all aspects of health: a healthy body through chemical-free, nutrient-rich soil; healthy animals raised with care; and healthy plants thriving without synthetic inputs,” says extraordinary professor Raymond Auerbach, chair of the Network of Organic Agricultural Researchers in Africa (NOARA).
“It also fosters a healthy community spirit, as people work together to take care of each other and the planet. Remember, while Mother Earth needs your help, you need hers even more,” Auerbach adds.
To make sure you’re buying the real deal, look for certified organic products. In South Africa, certification comes from PGS and accredited bodies like Control Union, Ecocert, Afrisco, and CERES.
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