Here at Blush Lane, we don’t just sell organic produce and products. We actually grow organic produce ourselves! Whether at our organic orchard in BC or at our markets in Calgary and Edmonton, our knowledgable staff can help you find the best organic produce around.

organic vs. Organic

What does “organic” mean?

The term “organic” is complex. It not only describes the agricultural method, but it also describes the food created.

A simple definition of “organic” is food that grows in harmony with the environment. Farmers work with land, water, air and native plants and animals to produce food, and use methods to make sure the farm will sustain over endless seasons. Organic products – from produce to dairy to meat – are the end result of organic farming.

Organic farms

To grow food, organic farms only use natural inputs (from seeds to soil to fertilizer). There are no chemical pesticides, fertilizers, herbicides, dyes or waxes. There are also no genetically modified varieties used, and all organic food is not irradiated.

Because of a wide diversity of climates, soil types and local ecosystems, organic farming practices differ around the world. For example, one organic technique to control pests in the Alberta prairies might not be useful in interior BC. To be successful, farmers have to be aware of the intricacies of their land and local ecology. Basically, organic farming isn’t as easy as you might think.

So, what does “Organic” mean?

The word “Organic” (with a capital “O”) refers to the regulation and certification of organic food. Compared to other food terms like “natural,” “local” and “free-range,” Organic means the food is guaranteed to be organic according to government definitions.

Certified Organic Produce

Our own Blush Lane orchard is Certified Organic, as well as most produce we sell. That means that our orchard and farming practices meet the Canadian Organic Standard regulations and we are certified to show the Canada Organic label. Certification is not an easy task – it requires regular inspections (sometimes surprise ones) and keeping up-to-date with the current standards.

As the growers of organic produce, we know the unique challenges of maintaining an organic farm. And we know the immense benefits of choosing to eat organic (one of the reasons – it tastes great!). Come visit our markets to try for yourselves!