Ask the Dietitian - What Is Sustainability and How Does It Relate to the Organic Industry?

Ask the Dietitian - What Is Sustainability and How Does It Relate to the Organic Industry?

As organic consumers, you’ve probably heard the word “sustainability” a lot in recent news and publications. But what does this really mean?

The word “sustain” is defined in my old Webster’s Dictionary as “to keep in existence.” In other words, when we hear or read the word “sustainability” this means the things we use, eat and drink must continue to help not just ourselves, but also the environment we live in. With that in mind, let’s remember that those of us who appreciate organic foods and products have always been promoting “sustainability”. Let’s look at the reasons why.

Environmental health

• Organic farming uses soil devoid of harmful, nasty chemicals like pesticides, herbicides including glyphosate (trade name Roundup®), and fungicide.
• Organic farming results in less water pollution. Sewage sludge cannot be used as a fertilizer.
• Organic farming releases fewer greenhouse emissions.
• Organic farming is more energy efficient.

Personal Health

• Certified organic products mean less synthetic and harmful chemicals that can cause nerve damage, breathing problems, cancers, and a whole host of other health issues.

Plant/animal/insect/good bacteria Health

• Organic practices promote biodiversity and prevent the horrible consequences of loss of various species – think about the loss of bee colonies due to harmful chemicals and what this means for food production. GMOs (genetically modified organisms) are prohibited.
• Organic farming is devoted to animal welfare. Growth promoting drugs and hormones are not allowed.

These are just a few reasons why thinking about a sustainable environment is important. Let’s think about other ways to promote sustainable living.

• Look for recycling opportunities and then recycle!
• Use cloth bags when shopping that are reusable and can be washed rather than plastic bags. Even when shopping at a clothing store, ask if you can simply carry your purchases out of the store or use your own bag.
• Check with your local government agency to see if there’s a program to recycle your garbage. Some areas have municipal composting with the added benefit that you can obtain the compost for your own plants.
• Additional ideas for recycling can be found in "How to Recycle Trash" on SFGate.

At Nature’s One, we’re committed to sustainability. Not only do we make sure our ingredients are the purest and safest, our packaging is also a part of our commitment. Our corrugated boxes are one of the most environmentally friendly packaging solutions available. Our boxes are 100% recyclable and can be repurposed. The packing material (peanuts) are made of starch and are 100% biodegradable. Because they decompose in water, they are suitable for use in a compost as well!

Practice sustainability, be organic!

If you have other suggestions to support sustainability, let me know. I’d be happy to post them in a future blog! And thanks for using our organic products!

-Diane

**For specific medical care and nutritional advice on product usage, please see your healthcare professional