How organic farming sustains soil health and boosts the quality of produce

Conventional farming practices have become commonplace due to a number of reasons. A key reason is the high demand for produce; a demand that is perceived as only being satisfied through a scalable business operation that includes the use of dangerous chemicals. Consumers are seeing the harm that such chemicals can cause. This has, in turn, led to consumers realising the advantages of purchasing and consuming certified organic products that are free from chemicals.

But let’s dig a little deeper into the effects from chemicals.

We all know the harm that these chemicals are causing to humans. But are we aware of how chemicals are actually harming the health of the soil that is used to grow our food?

Yes, ‘soil health’ is a thing! In a nutshell, the term ‘soil health’ refers to the condition of the soil’s potential to sustain biological productivity and environmental sustenance. A healthy soil is characterised by the rich biodiversity in both the soil and it’s surrounding environment, it’s ability to store water, and most importantly, to support a healthy produce. A ‘unhealthy soil’ is characterised by a lack of biodiversity, poor water storage, increased levels of erosion and a depletion of the inherent soil nutrients.

But how does this relate to chemicals?

Well the chemicals that are used within conventional farming practices - including herbicides (used to limit the growth of unwanted plants) and insecticides (used to limit the presence of insects) - are harmful to soil health. Due to soil health being dependent on environmental biodiversity, the use of such chemicals limit the potential for any biodiverse processes to occur within and outside of the soil itself. Such a detriment has the capacity to impact not only the quality of produce, but also the longevity of environment itself.

The immediate and long-term benefits of improved soil health should not be overlooked. Healthy soil reduces the costs of inputs - including chemicals, fertilisers and even water usage - along with improving the soil’s ability to contain water and nutrients for plant growth. In addition, the improved nutrients of the soil (resulting from a biodiverse environment, amongst other factors) allows for a greater support for healthy consumable foods.

Thankfully, there are food brands that are on the forefront of prioritising environmental longevity. One of these brands is Alter Eco, whose entire product offering is certified organic. Yet Alter Eco have gone the extra mile to ensure that they are supporting Regenerative Agricultural Practices which are aimed at restoring the health of our soils. It is for this reason, that Alter Eco are pursuing Regenerative Organic Certification; a pursuit that will support a holistic and contributive approach to sustainable farming.

Alter Eco are known for their delicious chocolate bars and truffles, which are produced using high quality organic cacao (sourced from farmers that are replanting forests around the globe) and coconut oil.

Welcome Organics is stoked to be stocking these delicious chocolate products from Alter Eco. View our store to get your hands on these indulgent treats and support the regenerative endeavours of Alter Eco.