Organic

 The Organic vs Conventional debate: What is the Real difference?

Have you ever been standing in the grocery store and wondering why one bunch of spinach has the label organic and the other one does not? Frankly speaking, I have also experienced the confusion! The options are unlimited and the words appear to be complex. We can simplify it down just like I would do to a friend in chai.

Organic 

What is organic and what is normal?

Organic foods are cultivated in the absence of the synthetic chemicals or GMOs (genetically modified organisms). Rather, farmers apply natural pesticides, crop rotation and hand weeding of pests. Organic farming is based on the ancient Indian practices, in which composting and soil care were central, almost the same way my grandfather used to tend to his fields many years ago.

Traditional agriculture, however, depends on massive use of chemical fertilizers, pesticides and genetically modified seeds to produce higher harvest and faster develop. It is the system that gained popularity in enhancing food production in India and more so during the Green Revolution.

Key Differences

1.Farming PracticesOrganic farming: The practice involves the use of natural composts, green manure, and organic pest control. None of the artificial chemicals and GMOs. Conventional agricultural system: It involves the use of chemical fertilisers, pesticides and monocropping is popular. Huge machinery and genetically modified seeds are widespread.

2.Health EffectOrganic produce: It is generally free of toxic chemical residues. Research indicates that it can be more nutritious, vitamins and antioxidant-rich- helping you to be healthier.

Conventional produce: It may contain traces of pesticides and the overuse of them can sometimes harm the soil, the water, and the one who consumes it.On the personal note, when my family shifted to organic milk, it was fresher and I felt better after taking my morning tea. Small changes can mean a lot!

3.Nutrition:A number of studies indicate that organic fruits and vegetables have a little more vitamin C, iron, and magnesium in them because of naturally healthy soil and the reduced use of chemicals. Traditional crops can be lower in terms of nutrition but can be cheaper and more common.

4.Environmental Impact:Organic farming protects the biodiversity, water quality, and healthier soil. It is more sustainable, less polluted and has a better ecological equilibrium.In part, the conventional farming also results in soil erosion, the lack of biodiversity and the chemical run-off.

Conventional Sikkim is the fully organic state of India- it is a good example to the rest of the nation.

5.Price and Accessibility:Price Organic food tends to be expensive because of the labour-intensive production and low yields. Traditional food is simpler to the wallet, as it has the benefit of technological advancement and mass production.When I first started shopping on organic veggies only, the change was significantly more expensive! I am now attempting to combine the two- organic in my salad greens and conventional in the more durable vegetables.

6.Certification:Food safety and actual practice Organic items must be certified by established standards (e.g. NPOP in India). Traditional crops do not require specialised certification, they are however required to meet general agricultural regulations.

Organic vs Conventional debate:

Difficulties in IndiaOrganic farmers are affected by such problems as the high initial cost, problems with the certification and decreased yields. They can hardly access the market, and they require greater state assistance. The traditional farmers are grappling with the increased costs of fertilizers, soil erosion, resistance of pests, and water shortage. Both have to contend with market uncertainties and climate changes and therefore farming is uncertain.

What Will Consumers Select?

Should you want chemical-free, healthy food, and you can afford to pay a little more, organic is a good option.Should you need a lot of everyday food, such as consumable goods, then conventional produce will fit the bill.I personally would use both styles, with the occasional use of organic food in situations where I can afford it, and conventional food in situations where I need a lot of it. The flavor and satisfaction of the consumption of organic dal or vegetables makes the process worthwhile, yet everyone will not have to roll dice to gain the advantage.

Concluding. 

the discussionOur food is raised in a different way, processed differently, and delivered to our tables in an organic and a conventional way. Organic food is a synonym of health, sustainability and tradition, but traditional farming is inclined on affordable and efficient. The lifestyle, budget and personal values are factors that determine which one is chosen ahead of the other.