What Does Organic Mean?
When it comes to the food and beverages we consume, the term "organic" has gained significant attention.
But what does organic actually mean?
In simple terms, organic refers to the way plants are grown without the use of synthetic pesticides, chemicals, or genetically modified organisms (GMOs).
For example, organic tea is cultivated without the assistance of harmful pesticides and other chemicals that could potentially enter our bodies upon consumption.
But why is it important to choose organic products, particularly when it comes to tea?
Benefits of Organic Tea
Tea is often consumed without being washed first.
This means that any chemicals or pesticides used during its cultivation can remain on the leaves when we steep them in hot water.
By opting for organic tea, we can eliminate the potential risks associated with consuming these harmful substances.
Organic tea gives us peace of mind, knowing that we are sipping on a natural beverage free from residues.
It's worth noting that some variations, such as organic Matcha, come with a slightly higher price tag.
Why Is Organic Matcha More Expensive?
If you've ever wondered why organic Matcha might be pricier than its non-organic counterparts, the answer lies in its cultivation process.
Producing organic Matcha involves growing tea plants without the use of pesticides or other chemicals. This makes it more challenging for tea farmers to protect their crops from pests and diseases.
Without the assistance of synthetic interventions, farmers must rely on natural pest management techniques and strategic cultivation methods to ensure the health and vitality of their tea plants.
The additional effort required for organic farming leads to higher production costs, resulting in organic Matcha being priced slightly higher compared to conventionally grown Matcha.
Organic or Non-Organic Matcha?
When it comes to choosing between organic and non-organic matcha, there's more to consider than meets the eye.
Taste:
Some argue that non-organic Matcha tastes better.
Often, this is because the tea plants are better able to grow with the chemicals and fertilisers used during traditional cultivation.
In addition, traditional cultivation has been practiced for hundreds of years, leading to strong expertise in the Japanese Matcha farming communities.
In contrast, organic Matcha cultivation is still a nascent practice.
However, the growing interest in organic and sustainable practices has paved the way for the cultivation of high-quality organic matcha as well.
As demand for organic options increases, artisans are adapting their methods to include organic practices without compromising on taste and quality.
Health Benefits:
Organic matcha is often considered healthier due to its reduced exposure to synthetic chemicals.
Pesticides and synthetic fertilizers can leave residues on tea leaves, which might be ingested when consuming the tea.
While the long-term health impacts of these residues might not be fully understood, many people choose organic products to reduce their potential exposure to these substances.
What do I choose?
Ultimately, the decision to choose organic or non-organic matcha depends on individual priorities.
If health and reducing exposure to synthetic chemicals are important to you, organic Matcha might be the preferable choice.
However, if you are not drinking Matcha too frequently and less concerned with exposure to chemicals, you can try non-organic matcha.
In Conclusion
Understanding the meaning of organic is crucial when it comes to making informed choices about the food and beverages we consume.
Opting for organic tea provides numerous benefits, including the absence of harmful chemicals and pesticides, increased nutrient content, and a positive impact on the environment.
While organic Matcha may be slightly more expensive, the extra cost reflects the extensive care and effort put into its cultivation using sustainable practices.
