The Grocery Store Buzzwords
Have you ever stood in the grocery store staring at labels and wondering, “What does biodynamic even mean?” You’re not alone.
As more consumers care about where their food comes from, new terms like regenerative and biodynamic farming are showing up alongside organic. But what do they actually mean? And how do they affect the food you eat?
Let’s break it down.
What Does Organic Mean?
Organic farming is the most widely recognized and regulated of the three. To earn USDA Organic certification, farms must:
- Avoid synthetic pesticides, herbicides, and fertilizers
- Not use GMOs
- Follow specific soil and crop management standards
- Undergo regular inspections
Organic is focused on what’s not used in farming. But it also encourages biodiversity, soil health, and sustainable land management practices.
What Is Regenerative Agriculture?
Regenerative farming focuses on improving the health of the land, not just maintaining it. Core practices include:
- Cover cropping
- Composting
- Crop rotation
- Minimal or no tillage
- Integration of livestock
It’s about putting more into the soil than you take out, with the goal of reversing climate damage and restoring ecosystems. Regenerative isn’t a formal USDA certification (yet), but third-party organizations like Regenerative Organic Certified (ROC) have created standards.
What Is Biodynamic Farming?
Think of biodynamic farming as regenerative-plus, with a touch of philosophy.
Started in the 1920s, biodynamic farming includes all the organic principles, but also:
- Uses natural compost and fermented preparations
- Views the farm as a self-sustaining, living organism
- Requires certification through Demeter USA
- Some follow lunar and astrological planting calendars.
Some people love the spiritual approach, while others appreciate its deep focus on the harmony of soil, plants, and animals.
Takeaway: What is the main difference between organic and biodynamic farming?
“The main differences are that bio-dynamics likes to create farm fertility from the resources of the farm itself, whereas organics can buy fertility in. For example, a truck-load of chook manure or rock minerals may be purchased for an organic farm and spread out onto the soil.” -https://www.wholefoodsmarket.com/quality-standards/organic/biodynamic-agriculture
Where North Coast Organic Stands
North Coast Organic is proudly USDA Certified Organic. That means our apples are grown without synthetic pesticides, GMOs, or shortcuts. While we don’t use the regenerative or biodynamic labels, we support farming partners who share our vision of sustainability and environmental care.
Our focus is always on transparency, soil health, and doing right by future generations.
The Bottom Line
You don’t need a PhD in agriculture to make informed choices. Look for the labels that align with your values, and remember that every bite you take is a vote for the food system you want to support.
Follow @northcoastorganic for more no-fluff breakdowns and feel-good food facts.
