Organic produce

The Soil Association has launched 2014’s Organic September campaign.

The UK’s biggest celebration of all things organic, the event is scheduled to take place in a year which saw the organic market return to growth, and when scientific evidence showed nutritional differences in organic vegetables, fruit and cereals.

Building on the success of the 2013 campaign, which saw a sales increase by 9 per cent during September, this year’s theme is once again, 'Small Changes, Big Difference'.

Consumers are encouraged to make one small change to their shopping habits in order to make a big difference to sustainable food, animal welfare or the environment. Some of the small changes people can make include switching to organic milk, eggs, apples, choosing an organic moisturiser or even buying an organic cotton t-shirt.

Throughout September, members of the public will also be asked to vote for their favourite organic products in the 2014 Organic Awards. This year’s awards have seen the categories extended from food and drink to cover all things organic – from eating out and holidays, to skincare and clothing.

Independent, online and national retailers will be promoting organic, offering discounts and holding events. The Soil Association is also hosting key events throughout September.

Helen Browning, Soil Association chief executive, said: “By choosing organic, you help protect wildlife and make sure we have more bees and pollinators to support biodiversity, while choosing an organic beauty product or an organic t-shirt will not only give you peace of mind that what you’re putting on your skin is better for you but also that it’s caring for the people in developing countries, who are producing cotton and herbs.

“It might not seem like these simple changes could make that much difference – but together, everyone’s small changes can add up to a really big difference for a kinder, green and better food and farming system.”

For more details about the awards and how to votes, visit www.soilassociation.org.uk/organicawards.