In recent years, more and more people are turning to organic products because they are looking for a healthier diet, but also because they want to live a more environmentally friendly lifestyle.
Organic products are free of chemical fertilizers, dangerous pesticides and hormones, that is, dangerous substances that contaminate the body, soil and water.
Organic fruits and vegetables are ideal for a proper diet for an additional reason. They contain higher amounts of vitamins, calcium, iron, etc. in relation to conventional agricultural products.
Most importantly, biologicals contain more flavonoids, which are antioxidants. Flavonoids are the natural defense of the plant, protecting them against pathogenic microorganisms, UV radiation and herbivores. Pesticides and other chemicals, such as herbicides, suppress some of the flavonoids.
The benefits of organic have been confirmed by several studies and need not be analyzed in more detail. But the question here is that we can be sure that the fruits and vegetables we buy are actually organic.
Watch out the certification!
According to IFOAM, the largest international organization on organic matter, "Organic farming is a production system that preserves and improves the health of soils, ecosystems and humans. It relies on ecological processes, biodiversity and biocycles adapted to local conditions, rather than using inputs that have a negative impact. Organic farming combines tradition, innovation and science for the benefit of the common environment while promoting fair relationships and a good quality of life for all involved. "
Of course, organic selection is not a matter of definition, nor can some products be labeled organic simply because their producer assures us of that.
For a plant or animal product to be classified as organic, it must have been produced in accordance with specific requirements laid down in European law. Compliance with these specifications is monitored by approved Organic Control and Certification Bodies, which examine all stages of production.
In Greece there are certain companies that have been accredited as Organic Certification Bodies.
When buying organic, besides the relevant bio-labeling, you should check that they are certified by an approved body.
Strict specifications
- Under European law, organic farming products are those produced from pesticide-free parcels for at least two years for crops with an annual biological cycle or for three years for perennials.
- There is a second category that is organic farming in conversion. These are products of plant origin produced in parcels 'converted to organic farming'. In these parcels, the principles of organic farming are applied for at least one year, thereby ensuring the absence of pesticide residues in the finished product.
- These two categories also apply to processed products. Organic farming includes processed products comprising at least 95% of organic farming ingredients.
Sources:
dionet.gr
ΒΙΟHELLAS
COSMOS Trust in organic and natural cosmetics
International Food Policy Research Instute IFPRI
The Organic Center
By Dr Angel,
Αggeliki Koskeridou
Holistic Doctor – Counseling Psychotherapist
Doctor of Naturopathic Medicine
MSc c. Health Psychology
insta: dr_aggelikikoskeridou_official
