NATIONAL REPORT—One of the main reasons farmers want to farm organically is due to concerns for the environment and about working with agricultural chemicals in conventional farming systems. Organic means food must be grown without the use of bioengineered genes (GMOs), synthetic pesticides, petroleum-based fertilizers, and sewage sludge-based fertilizers. Omaha is on the forefront of the farm-to-fork movement. Real estate in Omaha will soon be one of the hottest real estate markets for investors, thanks to agricultural products and services. More and more people seem to be eating organic, keep reading for the five benefits of eating organic.
1. Organic Farming is Better for the Environment—Organic farming practices reduce pollution, conserve water, reduce soil erosion, increase soil fertility, and use less energy. Farming without pesticides is also better for nearby birds and animals as well as people who live close to farms. Organic is better for you, it’s better for the people growing and picking the food, and it’s better for the climate.
2. Fewer Pesticides and Heavy Metals—Fruits, vegetables, and grains labeled organic are grown without the use of most synthetic pesticides or artificial fertilizers. While such chemicals have been deemed safe in the quantities used for conventional farming, health experts still warn about the potential harms of repeated exposure.
3. Organic Tastes Better—Buying organic is beneficial to the environment, yet another added bonus, it tastes much better. Organic fruit and vegetables tend to grow more slowly and have lower water content, which contributes to the fuller flavor some people experience. Not only does the food taste better by itself, but you’ll also find your cooking requires fewer additives. Less salt, less sauce.
4. Higher Quality Meat and Dairy—The main differences between organic and conventional meats are the foods the animals are fed, and the manner in which the animals are raised. Organic meats often have a fresher and more authentic taste because they are fed more naturally and are free of hormones and chemicals that conventionally raised animals are administered. Because organic meats are higher in antioxidants, they will give your taste buds a better taste experience.
5. Organic Food is Better for You—Organic foods are better for your health overall. Research indicates that organic fruits and vegetables are high in antioxidants, vitamin C, calcium, iron, chromium, and magnesium. Consider filling your diet with organic foods to keep yourself going. Your grocery bill might be a bit higher, but your production value will increase as your body adjusts to the cleaner nutrition.
