At Brioche we choose to only use organic products. Here's why:
Animal welfare
Organic
farming protocol requires animals used for produce are treated and
raised humanely. Livestock are given housing and shelter all year round
and are allowed to roam and socialise with other animals. Eggs are
free-range, not battery hens.
No drugs
The
animals raised may be treated with vaccines but they aren't fed any
growth-regulating drugs, steroids, hormones or antibiotics.
Environmental sustainability
Protecting
and working in harmony with existing ecosystems is central to organic
farming. Water, soil and energy conservation; using renewable resources
and natural farming cycles, such as rotating crops to sustain soil
nutrient levels.
No synthetic chemicals
Pesticides
and artificial fertilisers aren't used. Pesticide residues in fruit and
vegetables are closely monitored in Australia. There is always the
chance however that pesticides currently deemed as safe are found to be
hazardous. This was the case with DDT, which was once a popular
pesticide.
No GM or irradiated foods
Organic
foods contain no Genetically Modified (GM) components, nor have they
been exposed to irradiation. There is still widespread speculation and
debate over the possible long term health, economic and environmental
consequences of GM foods. Many believe GM foods may drastically reduce
biodiversity. There are similar concerns with irradiated produce.
Strict certification rules
Organic farms are only certified after they have been operating according to 'organic' principles for three years.
note: The use of the word 'organic' is not regulated in Australia. Any business can coin the term 'organic' without meeting certification rules.