Unless you’ve been living without internet for the past few years, you’ve probably at least heard the term “biodynamic”.
But what does biodynamic actually mean? And should you be paying closer attention to it?
The definition of biodynamic begins at the farm.
According to the Biodynamics Association, “Biodynamics is a holistic, ecological, and ethical approach to farming, gardening food and nutrition”.
In layman’s terms, it’s basically a 360 degree view on farming and food, where everything is connected and recycled through everything else.
Biodynamic farmers don’t touch artificial chemicals. They use biological soil preparations to build soil life and health to encourage and support crop vitality.
And if they raise animals, they allow those animals to roam freely and graze on natural pastures. Sounds pretty good to us!
Biodynamic goes WAY beyond organic.
All biodynamic farms are organic. But they take it even a step further.
While an organic farmer may use organic fertilizer for their crops, a biodynamic farmer would create that organic fertilizer on their own farm by composting or using certain manures, or even planting crops that specifically put nutrients back into the soil.
Biodynamic farmers may even take into account the rhythms of the sun and moon. (Let’s just hope there’s no ritualistic rain dancing or chanting involved!)
The up-sides of biodynamic farming.
It’s well-regulated. All biodynamic farms must be certified by Demeter. They use a Biodynamic Farm Standard which all certified Biodynamic farms must adhere to.
- It improves nutrient quality and flavour of the food. Nutrient-rich soils and freely grazing animals tend to produce more nutritious crops and end products.
- It can return higher yields. When you create a farm that meets and fulfills its own needs from within, you avoid the need for outside inputs and waste. Everything is recycled in on itself. Nifty!
Only one downside… your wallet.
Biodynamic products tend to be more costly than organic (which we discovered when we taste-tested different yoghurts recently).
Our verdict?
While biodynamic food not only tastes better, contains more nutrients and regenerates normally wasteful farms, the practicality of buying bio all the time may be a stretch for most.
But that’s okay! If cost (and availability) is an issue, simply make it your goal to JERF whenever possible!
And if you’re wondering what products you should really try and buy organic or biodynamic, use the Dirty Dozen and Clean Fifteen lists as a reference point.
Do you notice a substantial difference in taste when trying biodynamic food? Let us know in the comments below!
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