Have been agonising about writing this blog for the past week. And I realise that I am writing from a privileged position in that I don't rely on our land to feed my family or more likely the greedy bank. But, that said, I am upset about the plea from some organic farmers to be given a 'holiday' from organic status, as though it was something you can pull on and off like a shoe.
I know prices of organic feed have rocketed and many farmers are finding it difficult, even impossible, to make the profits (or even the living) they expected. But if organic status is to mean anything, consumers need to believe that it means more than money: that it is truly about looking after the land and livestock.
Of course, it is not for me to tell anyone how to farm. But surely former organic producers cannot just 'take a 'break' – be given a magic pass from a proper inspection when it's more profitable to be 'organic' again.
I don't always buy organic. I am more likely to buy local and seasonal fruit and veg than organic beans or asparagus flown in from the other side of the world. But if organic status is to continue to mean anything, consumers must be able to trust that certified animals have lived on land and feed (and in conditions) that are guaranteed to have been free of pesticides for years. And not just since it was last expedient to be otherwise.
Trust is a fragile commodity that relies on honesty from both parties, and can be damaged by the decision, say, to grant organic status to farmed fish. And if the Soil Association or any other certifying body were to be seen to make another compromise based on economics many consumers, me included, might find it hard to forget or forgive.
But, please tell, what do you think?
