Understanding Organic vs. Certified Organic

Hello friends and supporters of Dancing Hen Farm!In the world of farming and food production, the terms "organic" and "certified organic" are often used. But what do they really mean, and is certification necessary for ensuring the quality and health benefits of the food we produce? Let’s delve into the differences and share our approach here at Dancing Hen Farm.

Organic vs. Certified Organic

Organic:

Organic farming emphasizes natural processes and materials to cultivate crops and raise livestock. This means avoiding synthetic fertilizers, pesticides, and genetically modified organisms (GMOs).
Farmers use techniques like crop rotation, composting, and biological pest control to maintain soil health and plant vitality.
Organic farming promotes biodiversity, sustainability, and ecosystem health.

Certified Organic:

Certified organic farms follow the same principles as organic farms but go through a formal certification process to verify they meet specific standards set by an accredited certifying agency.
Certification involves detailed record-keeping, regular inspections, and strict adherence to guidelines about the use of synthetic inputs and management practices.
The certification process can be costly, involving fees for inspections and paperwork, which can be a significant expense for small farms.

Our Philosophy at Dancing Hen Farm

While certification can offer assurance, we believe that the heart of organic farming lies in caring for our soil and environment. At Dancing Hen Farm, we take immense pride in our commitment to these principles, even though we are not certified organic. Here’s why we think this approach matters:

Sustainable Practices: We use natural methods to grow our crops, ensuring the health of our soil and the surrounding ecosystem.
No Chemicals: We believe that food is medicine. By avoiding synthetic fertilizers and pesticides, we ensure that our produce is free from harmful chemicals, providing you with safe, healthy food.
Quality and Care: Our dedication to sustainable farming practices means that we can offer you high-quality, nutritious produce, eggs, and chicken. We nurture our plants and animals with care, so you can enjoy food that’s good for your body and soul.
Cost-Effective Use of Resources: Instead of spending money on the costly certification process, we invest directly in our farm. This allows us to improve our infrastructure, enhance our farming practices, and ensure the well-being of our plants and animals.

You can trust that at Dancing Hen Farm, we have your back. We are dedicated to growing food that is not only delicious but also beneficial for your health. Worry not—we’re here to provide you with the best local, chemical-free produce and pasture-raised eggs and chicken.

Thank you for being a part of our community!

Written by Tai from the Farm

Feel free to share your thoughts, experiences, and recipes with us on social media. We love hearing from our CSA members and seeing how you enjoy the bounty of Dancing Hen Farm!