Why go organic?

Getting started
You don’t need to switch to a totally organic diet to begin enjoying its fruits. Whether you start with an organic loaf from the supermarket or a bunch of freshly harvested organic carrots from a farmer’s market, the same positive action will generate the same positive feelings. Many people comment on the flavour of organic food and, once you begin eating it on a regular basis, you will want to adapt your diet, shopping habits and budget to enable you to choose as much as possible.

1. BUY at least one organic item every time you shop.
2. START with everyday staples like bread, milk, potatoes and pasta.
3. TRY something new every week.
4. SNAP UP promotional and seasonal offers.
5. GO LOCAL for best value by joining a box scheme or visiting a farmer’s market. You can find out about your local box scheme in the following ways:

• contact the Soil Association (tel: 0117 929 0661) to order The Organic Directory (£7.95). This guide, compiled and edited by Clive Litchfield in association with the Soil Association, gives a comprehensive listing of organic suppliers including box schemes and home delivery services.
• Try a web search for organic box schemes in your area.
• Local Food Directories - the local agenda 21 officer at your council should be able to tell you if a directory of locally produced food has been published for your area. They may even advise you on a suitable box scheme.
• Arrange a visit to an organic farm through the Soil Association's Organic Farms Network, tel: 0117 929 0661
• Visit your nearest Farmers' Market. Send a SAE to: National Association of Farmers' Markets, Envolve, South Vaults, Green Park Station, Bath, BA1 1JB

Source: Organic Living by Lynda Brown (Dorling Kindersley)