Why Organic?
Since the 1940’s farming practices have poured millions of tons of toxic chemicals onto the soils of North America to kill pests and weeds in the hope of increasing crop yields. Sadly, crop loss over the past 50 years has doubled while our wells and groundwater streams and lakes have become polluted. The U.S. Geological Survey released in 1998 revealed nearly every stream they studied contained at least one pesticide from the run off of farm fields. There have been 9,700 types of agricultural toxins approved, and most likely affecting our food supply. The National Research Council has now found evidence that “children are ingesting enough pesticides that it will harm them.”
Organic farming does not use toxic chemicals, any herbicides, or pesticides. They control insects and weeds with crop rotation, mulching, rotation, and the encouragement of beneficial insects to keep control of pests. The result is less soil erosion, no toxic run off keeping our water cleaner, and an overall improved health of our ground. Recent reviews by The Organic Center for Education concludes that “organic production systems increase antioxidant levels by up to 50 percent over the same food grown with conventional farming practices.” Antioxidants such as flavanoids, beta carotene and vitamin C are produced by plants and promote human health by scavenging free radicals that can damage cells, accelerate the aging process, and trigger certain diseases. None of these antioxidants can be found in any type of meat. In support of your health, our environment and sustainable agriculture, Ope’s uses organic, plant-based ingredients in all of our products. Ope’s does not use any additives, irradiated ingredients, or genetically modified food items. The result is cleaner, better tasting products and the support of a healthier consumer and planet.
