Overheard middle-class conversation: “I really want to switch to all organic fruit and veg – it’s just so expensive.” “Sometimes I feel really guilty buying non-organic,” said the other woman. “It’s just so bad for the environment.” “Can’t be good for your health either. All those toxins.” They’re both wrong. Organic isn’t better for [...]

Professor Mike Gibney (of ‘Something to Chew On‘) has a really interesting piece in a recent Irish Times, in which he addresses the controversial issues of organic food, genetically-modified crops and carbon footprints of various items.  Well worth a read for a scientific perspective.

A new scientific study has found that organic food is no better for your health than vegetables grown with chemicals, reports today’s Irish Times. The study suggests that traditionally grown vegetables, which are significantly cheaper, have virtually identical health properties. As a general rule, it’s best to go with the science; I’ve yet to see [...]

I moved to the country three years ago and I have been growing my own vegetables and herbs each year. It is so satisfying and you don’t need to live in the country, have a big garden or even have a garden at all. When we lived in Dublin we had cabbage, mint and broccoli [...]

We’re joined today by Irish Times journalist Louise Holden for a special guest post on the politics of shopping. Grocery shopping has become complex to the point of absurdity. There has been a steady convolution of the simple act of shopping over the last twenty years, but recession brings a new and bewildering twist. How [...]