RFK Jr. calls for regenerative agriculture — companies heed the call by greenwashing
In 2020, Cargill announced it will advance regenerative agriculture across 10 million acres in North America by 2030. Three years later, Nestlé said it will source 50 percent of its key ingredients from farmers adopting regenerative practices by 2030. By the same year, General Mills wants to advance regenerative agriculture on 1 million acres of farmland. “Regenerative agriculture” is everywhere, but what does that phrase actually mean?
Though it is historically known as a sustainable farming philosophy grounded in Indigenous knowledge that prioritizes soil restoration and ecosystem biodiversity, regenerative agriculture has no universal definition. Like many terms in the sustainability stratosphere — eco-friendly, all-natural, net-zero — regenerative is quickly becoming a buzzword used by corporations to exaggerate sustainability claims without actually changing their food production practices. Although there are several independently certified regenerative labels, the lack of an overarching certification opens the door to misleading co-optation.
Regenerative is a bridge to organic production, not a substitute for it, says Friends of the Earth
Not all regenerative certification programs are equal in terms of standards they adhere to and the pesticides they prohibit, according to a recent report from environmental organization Friends of the Earth.
While regenerative agriculture is typically associated with eco-friendly farming practices that boost soil and human health, the report makes it clear that these things vary from one standard to the next, causing confusion for both consumers buying products and the food companies sourcing crops for ingredients.
Is organic farming the solution to enhance natural drought resilience in crops?
A study led by researchers from the Department of Microbiology at the University of Malaga has revealed how organic farming—using natural substances and processes and avoiding the use of synthetic chemicals—can, in the long term, help crops become more resistant to drought in a natural way.
These 10 Trader Joe’s Organic Foods Are Worth Every Penny, According To Customers
Trader Joe’s is the destination for many shoppers who are interested in unique international products, viral seasonal staples, and delicious grab-and-go prepared meals, but it’s also gained notoriety for its organic food options. Organic foods have become increasingly popular as shoppers become more informed about GMOs and synthetic pesticides, and look for cleaner ingredient lists with fewer artificial additives. While organic foods sometimes come with intimidating price tags at traditional grocery stores, Trader Joe’s has built a loyal following by offering high-quality organic staples at accessible prices.
