Organic doesn't go far enough

Biodynamic farmers Ian and Denise Bell say that they are not surprised the Food Standards Agency found that organic meat has no greater nutritional value than non-organic meat.

The pair, who run Heritage Prime in Dorset, say that organic food standards are not strict enough and may mislead the public

“Even organic farmers are permitted to use certain chemical herbicides on their crops or use antibiotics on their animals. This will have a huge impact on their nutritional value and purity,” said Ian Bell.

“We’ve been using biodynamic methods at Heritage Prime for the last 18 years, and we’re certain of our grounds for understanding nutrition. The resilience and vitality of the plants and animals in our care speaks volumes for our methods.”

Biodynamic sheep, pigs and cattle are raised without the use of pharmaceutical chemicals, pesticides or fertilisers, and any ailments are treated with homeopathic remedies. Instead of using chemical fertilisers, biodynamic farmers use a lunar calendar and make sure they sow and cut vegetation at the best possible time to retain nutrients.

Bell added: “Biodynamic food is beyond organic and can become available to everyone. But first we must collectively gain the strength to source our food directly from those who grow it, and get to know exactly what they are up to.

“We can be sure that, where supermarkets are concerned, the public are not told the whole truth about what goes into their food.”

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