What exactly is organic farming and is it really beneficial?
Organic farming means that plants are grown without the use of pesticides for weed management, insecticides or growth-regulating chemicals. It also avoids artificial fertilizers, a product that requires fossil fuels to produce. This method of cultivation removes fertile soil and plants from the influence of foreign chemicals during the growth process. By avoiding toxins and artificial fertilizers, we avoid burdening the cultivated soil with substances that can affect both soil life and soil carbon content.
Fertilizer consumes carbon when it is converted into nutrients for plants. For those who care about protecting nature from toxins, preserving insect habitat, and avoiding negative impacts on soil carbon and fertility, organic farming is a sustainable option. By growing and buying organic, we can minimize the risk of chemical impacts on nature, ensure healthy soil and water quality, and avoid consuming chemicals in our food.
What exactly is regenerative agriculture?
Regenerative agriculture is a sustainable practice in which natural resources and nutrients are returned to the crop soil to strengthen the carbon content and improve the nutrient content. There are different ways to achieve this, but in general, regenerative agriculture involves the following actions:
- Vegetated soil: Keeping the soil covered with vegetation.
- Return of crop residues to the soil.
- Promotion of microbes and mycelium to support soil health.
- Support for photosynthesis in growing crops.
- Creation of a balanced ecosystem where worms, insects and other organisms have access to natural nutrients.
- Minimized tillage to preserve and protect soil structure.
In this way, regenerative agriculture promotes a sustainable and harmonious environment where the natural processes of the soil can flourish.
Is it possible to combine regenerative and organic farming?
Absolutely, that is exactly what we are implementing here at Hasta. We have successfully integrated regenerative systems with our organic farming.
Sustainability... What does it really mean?
Is organic food more expensive?
The question of whether organic food is more expensive has complex dynamics. If we focus only on the initial cost of purchasing in the store, organic food may seem more expensive in the short term. However, we at Hasta believe it is important to consider a more long-term perspective.
Over time, we believe that organic farming is actually very cost-effective, especially when taking into account risk minimization and the benefits for future generations. By avoiding the use of chemicals and synthetic fertilizers, organic farming helps preserve soil quality and biodiversity. This can lead to a reduced risk of environmental degradation and negative health impacts.
In the longer term, organic farming creates a more sustainable food production model that benefits both current and future generations by preserving natural resources and creating a healthier environment. So while the direct cost of purchasing may be higher, the long-term benefits and risk minimization can make organic food more affordable and sustainable.
What is local?
Locally grown is a term that refers to farming that takes place close to the consumer. However, this term in itself does not give a clear indication of the environmental impact. Local organic, on the other hand, goes one step further and provides a more comprehensive picture.
When we talk about local organic, we emphasize not only the proximity to the consumer but also the environmental benefits. This means that the products are not only grown nearby but also under organic principles, meaning that the farming is free from chemical pesticides and synthetic fertilizers.
The benefits of locally produced organic food go beyond mere geographical proximity. Minimizing transport distances reduces carbon emissions while promoting local economies. In addition, the absence of foreign chemicals in cultivation means a lower impact on both the environment and consumer health. Thus, locally grown organic provides a more holistic and sustainable approach to farming, taking into account both proximity and environmental friendliness.
Do you know where Hasta products are
grown?
Of course! We are actively working on introducing a QR code system for our products, which will offer a detailed and transparent view of where the product comes from. This will be especially important if the product has not been grown here at Hasta.
By scanning the QR code, customers can access valuable information about the origin of the product, including the farm from which it comes. This initiative aims to promote transparency and create a closer link between the consumer and the origin of the products they choose to buy. In this way, we aim to support and encourage conscious consumption, where customers can make informed decisions about their purchases while appreciating the work that goes into each product.
What fuel does the machinery run on?
What type of electricity is used on the farms?
We have integrated solar panels that primarily provide us with the electricity we need. When the solar panels are not producing power, the electricity we use comes from outside and is of a fossil-free and green nature. By combining solar energy with external fossil-free electricity, we aim to optimize our use of renewable energy sources and thereby reduce our overall environmental impact. This sustainable energy supply is an important step in our commitment to minimize our climate impact and promote the transition to more environmentally friendly energy alternatives.
Can you bake with gluten-free flour?
Absolutely. Gluten plays a key role in giving bread its airiness and texture. When using gluten-free flour, you need to add something that can create a similar effect, and we strive to do this in an organic way. This means we carefully select the ingredients we add to maintain the quality and taste of our products.
One of the advantages of our wide repertoire of crops is that we can produce flour from different sources. This gives us the ability to create an organic flour offering that not only meets gluten-free requirements but also preserves the nutritional value and flavor profile. We aim to integrate these organic and sustainable practices to create breads and products that are not only nutritious but also benefit the environment and consumer health.
Does gluten-free bread contain more protein?
Absolutely. The flour we use for our gluten-free bread is mainly made from peas and other parts of our crops. All these ingredients are naturally high in protein, resulting in a bread with a significant amount of protein. By selecting pea flour and other nutritious parts of our crops, we aim to not only offer a gluten-free product but also enrich it with nutrients and protein. This makes our bread not only a good option for those with gluten intolerance but also a nutritious and protein-rich choice for anyone looking for healthier bread options.
Is it possible to mix flour in water and create a drink?
Absolutely, it's entirely possible. By adjusting the amount of water, you can create different consistencies and flavors, from a refreshing drink to a rich porridge or a nutritious gruel, and everything in between. It's a flexible process that adapts to your preferences. Moreover, the drink can be served cold or hot, depending on your own taste preferences and needs. This way, you can explore and customize flour and water mixtures to create various delicious and customizable drinks and meals.
Some people say that food is not enough if we don't use chemicals or fertilizers. Is this true?
It is claimed by some that if we refrain from using chemicals or artificial fertilizers, the food will not be sufficient. However, we at Hasta believe that the only sustainable way to ensure an adequate food supply is to invest in the development of our farmland. By using regenerative methods, we can not only maintain, but also improve the fertility of the soil for future generations.
In regenerative agriculture, we aim to create a symbiosis between the crops and the natural environment. By minimizing the use of chemicals and instead working with nature's own processes, we create a healthy and sustainable ecosystem. This not only ensures good harvests today but also strengthens our farmland and preserves the natural forces of our nature. The result is a long-term and reliable food supply that respects and benefits both the environment and future generations.