Organic farming

• This note covers some topics related to organic farming. However, the issue of whether organic food should be certified as such if imported by air freight is covered in the standard note on food miles. A related note is Food Miles (SN/SC/4985).

• Organic farming is supported under the Organic Entry Level Stewardship Scheme, which is part of the Common Agricultural Policy. All farmers are paid Single Farm Payment, based on the area of the farm. Increased payments are made to organic farmers.

• The Food Standards Agency has rejected claims that organic food is healthier than other food, but supporters of organic food remain unconvinced.

• Sales of organic food have declined during the recession.

• Research suggests that organic farming cannot match conventional yields, especially in cereals. However, it has advantages in biodiversity and soil conservation.