THE IMPORTANCE OF ORGANIC AGRICULTURE FOR HEALTH AND THE ENVIRONMENT

Abstract

The consumption of organic products is growing in Brazil, bringing benefits to health and the environment since these products are grown without pesticides, toxic substances, chemical and synthetic fertilizers. Organic farming is healthier and its products are tastier and of higher quality. The consumption of organic products occurs because they contain more nutrients, vitamins, minerals and antioxidants than conventional ones, helping to reduce the risk of contamination with pesticides, some diseases that affect the immune system and contributing to the preservation of nature, such as soil and biodiversity conservation. However, all organic food products sold in Brazil must be certified by the Brazilian Organic Conformity Assessment System (SISORG), under the guidance of the Ministry of Agriculture, which manages the entire organic production chain in Brazil. This work aimed to evaluate the benefits to health and the environment through the consumption and cultivation of organic agriculture, as well as related economic aspects, using as methodology a bibliographical review of scientific papers, books and magazines associated to the theme.