Organic Food, Farming and Culture: An Introduction

This textbook provides students with a comprehensive introduction to organic food and farming, including the history, nutritional benefits, and social and cultural meanings of organic food. It features practical case studies, exercises, and illustrations to reinforce understanding and learning.

\n Format: Paperback / softback
\n Length: 336 pages
\n Publication date: 21 February 2019
\n Publisher: Bloomsbury Publishing PLC
\n

Organic Food, Farming, and Culture is a comprehensive textbook that provides students with an in-depth introduction to organic food and farming. Authored by Janet Chrzan, Jacqueline A. Ricotta, and a team of contributors, this book delves into the principles, history, cultivation, distribution, consumption, nutritional benefits, and social and cultural significance of organic food.

Organic Food, Farming, and Culture offers a wealth of features to enhance understanding and learning. It includes practical case studies from organic farmers, chefs, restaurateurs, students, and concerned consumers, providing firsthand insights into the organic farming landscape. Additionally, the book includes exercises, discussion questions, and further reading suggestions to encourage active engagement and deeper exploration of the topics covered.

Illustrations of farms, food, and organic processes further enrich the text, visually demonstrating the intricacies and processes involved in organic agriculture. This engaging introduction to organic agriculture is an essential resource for students interested in food studies, sustainable agriculture, food security, environmental studies, nutrition, and health.

Organic food refers to agricultural products that are produced without the use of synthetic pesticides, fertilizers, genetically modified organisms (GMOs), or antibiotics. The principles of organic farming emphasize the use of natural and sustainable practices, such as crop rotation, composting, and the use of organic fertilizers. Organic farming also promotes biodiversity, soil health, and animal welfare.

The history of organic food can be traced back to the early 20th century when farmers began to adopt sustainable farming practices that were in harmony with the environment. The movement gained momentum in the 1960s and 1970s, with the rise of consumer awareness about the harmful effects of synthetic chemicals on food and the environment. Today, organic food is widely available and consumed globally.

Organic food is grown using a variety of methods, including organic farming, organic aquaculture, and organic beekeeping. Organic farming involves the use of natural fertilizers, such as compost, manure, and bone meal, and prohibits the use of synthetic pesticides, herbicides, and genetically modified organisms. Organic farmers also prioritize soil health and biodiversity by practicing crop rotation, cover cropping, and reducing tillage.

Organic food is known for its nutritional benefits. Studies have shown that organic food contains higher levels of certain nutrients, such as vitamin C, vitamin E, and antioxidants, compared to conventionally grown food. Organic food is also free from harmful chemicals and pesticides, which can have negative effects on human health.

In addition to its nutritional benefits, organic food has social and cultural meanings that are important to understand. Organic food is often associated with sustainable agriculture, environmentalism, and social justice. Many consumers choose organic food to support local farmers, reduce their carbon footprint, and promote a more sustainable food system. Organic food also has a strong connection to traditional and cultural practices, as many organic farmers prioritize the use of traditional farming methods and heirloom varieties of crops.

Organic food and farming have gained significant attention in recent years due to their potential benefits for human health, the environment, and sustainable agriculture. However, there are also concerns and controversies surrounding organic food, such as the cost, availability, and the impact of organic farming on small-scale farmers.

In conclusion, Organic Food, Farming, and Culture is a comprehensive textbook that provides students with an in-depth understanding of organic food and farming. Authored by experts in the field, this book offers a wealth of information, practical insights, and features to enhance learning and understanding. Whether you are a student, farmer, chef, or concerned consumer, this book is an essential resource for anyone interested in food studies, sustainable agriculture, and the social and cultural meanings attached to organic food.

\n Weight: 734g\n
Dimension: 247 x 190 x 21 (mm)\n
ISBN-13: 9781350027848\n \n