What is organic?

 The USDA National Organic Program defines organic:

 “Organic food is produced by farmers who emphasize the use of renewable resources and the conservation of soil and water to enhance environmental quality for future generations. Organic meat, poultry, eggs, and dairy products come from animals that are given no antibiotics or growth hormones. Organic food is produced without using most conventional pesticides; fertilizers made with synthetic ingredients or sewage sludge; bioengineering; or ionizing radiation. Before a product can be labeled "organic," a Government-approved certifier inspects the farm where the food is grown to make sure the farmer is following all the rules necessary to meet USDA organic standards. Companies that handle or process organic food before it gets to your local supermarket or restaurant must be certified, too.”

 Some history…

 At the turn of the last century, advances in technology and biochemistry began to change the nature of agriculture and farming. Mechanization allowed farmers to buy more land and farm more efficiently. And small, family farms began to transition into large acreages owned by big companies and corporations. A single farmer became able to do the work usually done by groups of laborers, and new pesticides, insecticides and ammonium nitrate, an artificial source of nitrogen, became abundantly cheap, launching an era of widespread use.

But since the early days of this transition, farmers and activists stood out against these changes which threatened to endanger the sustainability of farm land and the environment it depended upon. In the 70’s, the push for a return to organic, sustainable farming began to gain popularity worldwide. And in the 90’s, spurred by a global increase in environmental consciousness, and awareness of the harmful effects of a chemical world, the retail market for organic produce began an annual growth of 20% that continues today.

 More so today, organic is making its move into the mainstream market. One of the fastest growing segments in the food and beverage industry, organic has quickly become a billion dollar market. And large-scale retailers are taking notice. Whole Foods, one of the largest organic and natural retailers in the U.S., is experiencing exponential growth. And supermarket chains nationwide such as SuperValu and Kroger are opening their own organic health food stores to compete with Whole Foods, as well as expanding their in-store health departments.  The demand for organic products in the U.S. is in fact far exceeding supply, presenting an exceptional opportunity for organic suppliers to jump in to this new market.

What we do

At Rooted in Africa, we import natural and organic products produced within Africa to provide the opportunity presented in this lucrative market for economic expansion, sustainable development and employment within Africa.

In Africa, organic certification is still an expensive process for small farmers. While certified organic ingredients wherever possible are always preferable, it is more important for us to work with small farmers needing opportunity in Africa than the certification. Our clients use natural ingredients sustainably-farmed and wild-crafted, and though they are not always certified, no harmful ingredients or chemicals are ever used.

What is natural?