31/05/2026
It would certainly be much easier to farm with chemicals, apply some herbicides for the weeds, a pesticide or two to deal with the aphids and other mealy bugs, and a fungicide here and there to deal with the different fungal diseases. For good measure maybe throw in a growth inhibitor and a chemical wax coating to literally seal the deal and we have our food system all sown up.
This unfortunately is the reality of our modern-day food system. There is little doubt that the illusion of healthy food fostering great happy farmers, and a vibrant diverse landscape is very neatly packed in shiny plastic packaging on supermarket shelves. It looks lovely and shiny and clean and perfect.It is more challenging to grow food organically, you cannot reach for a bottle of chemicals to deal with every problem.
Farming with nature, protecting biodiversity, producing good clean healthy food is important to us. Of course there are MRLs, (maximum residue limits) these are limits that restrict the amount of chemical allowed in a food. But not all foods are tested and when they are a scary 54% of conventional food have chemicals in them. Now I think it would be preferable if we didnβt have to consume any toxic chemicals with our food, especially chemicals we are getting without our knowledge.
By choosing organic farming methods and supporting others who do the same, we are cultivating a relationship with the land that prioritizes health and sustainability. Our commitment to nurture the earth and provide nourishing food for you our community, can only continue through your support. After a tough year, now more than ever we could do with your support.
Thank you.
Kenneth
Link to a report
https://www.pcs.agriculture.gov.ie/media/pesticides/content/foodsafety/pesticideresiduesinfoodfrom2020/2021AnnualReportPesticideResiduesinFood060923.pdf