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A: This is a great question because the answer is what the answer to most questions about farming are, "It depends." Without a doubt, the philosophical underpinnings of organic agriculture are sound. Building soil biodiversity and decreasing our use of chemicals are better for the environment and human health.
However, agriculture is too complex to be defined in one word "organic."
Here is an example: The most natural way to raise cows is to raise them on grass. However, a cow that has been in a feedlot for 150 days eating organic grain can be called organic. This isn't, in my opinion, the correct way to raise cattle, but it does get approved because of the organic grain fed to the animals.
Local meat is a good option because it allows the consumer to get educated about the production by going to see the farm and learning about agriculture. This is really the best option from a consumer standpoint.
However, a confinement operation that markets its products locally is still a confinement operation, so the consumer has to take more responsibility here.
Finding some local grass-fed livestock products and organically raised vegetables is the best way to eat sustainably. Make sure you keep asking questions and get educated because it is complicated.
Best wishes,
Jamie
Have a gardening, growing or food question? Submit your question to one of our Asheville Farmers.
Photo and biography courtesy of Appalachian Sustainable Agriculture Project.
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