Which pesticides are used in Organic Farming
Many of our growers never use pesticides or herbicides. Instead, they employ methods that promote soil health and biodiversity, both of which are known to generate stronger plants that are better able to withstand pests and diseases. When soil health declines, so does the plant, and the diversity of our own microbiome improves our general health and well-being. As many insects and animals function as predators of grubs and other pests, allowing biodiversity in the environment can benefit plant health and performance. However, some chemicals are permissible for use on organic farms, and this is a thorough list of what is allowed for cereal crops.
Pesticides
So, why are chemicals permitted to be used by organic farmers?
Organic food is a whole-system approach to food production, from the farm to the product on the shelf. Certain chemicals are permissible, but rules require that they be used sparingly and not to sustain poorly managed systems. Instead, the emphasis should be on a ‘closed input’ strategy, as it is recognized that even permissible inputs might introduce contamination if utilized carelessly.
Pest management in crops in organic farming does not entail wiping out the insect population with a chemical. Pest control also includes planting crops with biodiversity in mind to attract and populate pest predators, parasitoids, and crop pollinators.
Organic inputs must meet the following criteria:
- Environmental safety and environmental protection are taken into account.
- Animal and human welfare considerations
- A half-life of 5 days, readily degraded in sunlight or dirt
- There is no residue in the food.
- There are no manmade compounds or xenobiotics.
- There is no evidence that it has mutagenic or carcinogenic characteristics.
- For auditing purposes, all inputs are logged in a log book.
Chemicals used in grain storage
Insecticides approved for use in traditional milling to control insects in stored grain include:
- Organophosphate dichlorvos (which has been linked to reproductive consequences, neurotoxicity, kidney/liver damage, and is a potential carcinogen).
- Several dichlorvos-based products are( no longer used on grain crops.)
- chlorpyriphos-methyl organophosphate (still commonly used in Australia despite links to reproductive effects, neurotoxicity, and birth defects.)
Concerning specific organic insecticides
- Bt (Bacillus thuringiensis) (Bacillus thuringiensis)
Bt (Bacillus thuringiensis) products are frequently used on cereals and other crops by both conventional and organic farmers to combat most types of leaf-eating caterpillars. It’s a naturally occurring soil bacteria that degrade under sunlight, leaving no trace within days of application.
While Bt is neither mutagenic, carcinogenic, or teratogenic, it has been proven to irritate the skin and mucous membranes.
Applied Bt is not comparable to Bt maize or Bt cotton which has been genetically designed to contain the Bt virus, thereby transforming the crop into a pesticide. As a result, the pesticide remains in the crop after it has been collected and processed.
- Rotenone
Rotenone, often known as derris dust, is a natural chemical found in the roots and stems of a small number of subtropical plants (Derris elliptica). It has been approved for organic usage. It also degrades quickly in the sunshine. It’s used on leafy vegetables rather than cereal grains, although there has been some debate over it, so it’s worth noting Rotenone’s present position in certified organic products. A recent study found that rotenone exposure triggered Parkinson’s disease-like symptoms in rats. As a result, rotenone has been designated as a prohibited input in the Australian Certified Organic Standard 2013, Annex I, 2013.
- NPV (Nuclear Polyhedrosis Virus) (Nuclear Polyhedrosis Virus)
NPV, a naturally occurring viral illness of caterpillars in the Australian environment, is utilized in several fruits and vegetables, as well as crops such as sorghum, chickpeas, and maize.
NPV is harmless for other moths while specifically targeting Heliothis armigera and Heliothis punctigeracan species. It can survive in the soil for years, but it is quickly killed by sunlight and high temperatures, and thus will be gone by the time crops are harvested.
The virus cannot affect humans in the same way that it affects insects because it must be broken down by the insect’s alkaline digestive system before it can be released.
Pesticides
Conclusion
Hence, Neem oil, derived from the neem tree, and pyrethrin, derived from chrysanthemum plants, are two pesticides are used in Organic Farming. Organic farming also allows for the use of a few synthetic chemicals. Copper sulphate, alcohols, chlorine products, hydrogen peroxide, and soaps are a few examples.
FAQ
- What are pesticides used in organic farming?
Pesticides used in organic farming are derived from natural sources such as plants, bacteria, and minerals. They are used to control pests and diseases in crops while maintaining the principles of organic farming.
- Are pesticides allowed in organic farming?
Yes, pesticides are allowed in organic farming, but they must meet strict regulations set by certifying agencies to ensure they are derived from natural sources and are not harmful to human health or the environment.
- What are the benefits of using pesticides in organic farming?
The use of pesticides in organic farming can help to control pests and diseases that can reduce crop yields and quality. It also helps to minimize the impact of these issues on the environment and maintain the principles of organic farming.
- What are the types of pesticides used in organic farming?
There are different types of pesticides used in organic farming, including botanical pesticides, mineral-based pesticides, and microbial pesticides. These are derived from natural sources such as neem, pyrethrum, copper, and sulfur.
- Are organic pesticides safer than synthetic pesticides?
While organic pesticides are generally considered safer than synthetic pesticides, it is important to use them properly and in accordance with regulations. Overuse or misuse of any pesticide, whether organic or synthetic, can have negative effects on the environment and human health.
- How are pesticides applied in organic farming?
Pesticides are typically applied in organic farming using methods such as spraying, dusting, or seed treatment. It is important to follow label instructions and use protective equipment to minimize exposure to pesticide.
- How can I know if my organic produce has been treated with pesticides?
If you purchase organic produce that has been certified by a reputable certifying agency, you can be assured that it has been produced without synthetic pesticides. However, it is possible that organic produce may have been treated with natural pesticides. If you have concerns, you can always wash your produce thoroughly before consuming it.