- Farm workers are not exposed to pesticides
- Pesticides and fertilizers do not pollute soil and waterways
- Some studies have shown that organic food is more nutritious and flavorful than conventionally grown food
Cons of organic food
- Organic products can leave a big carbon footprint. Even if something was grown in China and exported to the United States, it can still be called “organic”
- Many organic food products come from abroad, often Third World countries, where it’s difficult to ensure that US organic standards are truly met
- The requirements for an organic label do not include the humane treatment of animals, fair labor practices, or ecologically conscious farming practices
Definition of Local Food: Food from local farms, gardens, or the wild. “Local” can mean 100 miles from your home to a day’s drive, depending on whom you ask.
Pros of locally grown food
- Buying local helps to support small farms. More small farms means more genetic diversity of plants and animals, which makes the food system less vulnerable to disease
- Supporting small farms keeps money within the local economy, saves local jobs, and preserves farmland and open space
- Local food doesn’t contribute to air pollution and global warming to the same degree as food that travels long distances
Cons of locally grown food
- Locally grown food is not necessarily pesticide-free
- Many places are not suited to agriculture during certain times of year, like the Midwestern states in winter
- Studies show that a diet of mostly plants, no matter where they’re from, is better for the environment than a meat-heavy local diet
September 24, 2011 at 3:06 pm
There are lots of greenhoues,”Local”, in GA that grow certain foods all year.
September 24, 2011 at 4:04 pm
Still uses fuel to heat the greenhouses but I guess it is still better