Why Organic Can't Fulfill Our Food Supply Ideals [View all]

[HuckleB]

http://www.science20.com/agricultural_realism/why_organic_cant_fulfill_our_food_supply_ideals-154020

"Almost any farmer or consumer could agree on the following ideals for our agricultural system:


"Farming in ways that are best for us, best for the environment, and best for providing an adequate food supply."


I believe that these are the goals and ideals of organic customers and organic farmers, and I share them. If organic could deliver on these “triple best” goals, I would be among its strongest supporters, but I don't believe that it can. The organic rules are based on the assumption that “natural” is always best. That assumption originated in a pre-scientific era, and it does not hold up to what we have learned over the last century. The "natural" definition is great for marketing purposes, but often not the optimal criterion to guide farming practices.

...


Unfortunately, some of those who market organic products, and some who advocate for organic, continue to make unsupportable claims that organic is best for us and for the environment. Many consumers accept these claims and believe that they are doing the right thing by paying the premium prices for organic items. If we really had a food supply that was only safe and responsible for those able and willing to pay higher prices, that would represent a huge failing of public policy. Fortunately, that is not the case.

..."


------------------------------------------


This is a piece that must be read fully, and therefore it is a challenge. It does not make itself easily digestible in bumper sticker responses. Yes, I could be kinder in my description of what happens, far too often, at DU.

However, it is time for DU to get back to its roots, where evidence matters more than hyperbole.

I must try to beseech my fellow DUers on that road.

Take care.