According to a new study by the Organic Trade Association (OTA), US sales of organic food and non-food products reached US$24.6 billion in 2008, growing 17.1% over 2007 sales, despite tough economic times. Key findings show that organic food sales alone grew in 2008 by 15.8% to reach US$22.9 billion, while organic non-food sales grew by 39.4% to reach US$1.648 billion. These growth rates indicate that organic sales are growing faster than the rate of growth for conventional food products.
Organic chickens vs conventional chickens
When buying fresh chickens, choose organic and free-range ones. According to United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) requirements, organic chickens must be fed additive-free diets, be raised under specific and humane conditions and not be treated with antibiotics. While conventional chickens are fed diets that include by-products and fats, organic chickens are fed on corn or soy. Free-range chickens are allowed to roam freely, causing their muscles to grow naturally.
Happy pigs = healthier pork
Raising pigs in the open and feeding them grass and herbs are increasingly popular among small-scale farms. Free-range farms with natural ventilation and sunshine not only provide a better environment but also produce healthier pigs and more hygienic pork. Such herbs as turmeric and andrographis paniculata, which are included in pigs’ feed are believed to promote growth and prevent various illnesses.
Organic milk is better
A study found that organic milk can contain 67% more antioxidants and vitamins than ordinary milk and 60%more of a healthy fatty acid called conjugated linoleic acid or CLA9, which tests have shown can shrink tumors. The researchers believe that letting cows graze on fresh grass boosts the nutritional value of their milk. The benefits could include a lower risk of cancer and heart disease. Organic milk also contain 39% more of the fatty acid omega 3, which has been shown to cut the risk of heart disease and 32% the levels of the less healthy omega 6.
