‘Back to Roots’, city going organic

On display were produces from about a dozen local organic retailers, ranging from free-range eggs, organic vegetables, jams and cheeses, to even skincare and baby diapers. According to Mehar A, the founder of all-natural skincare brand Amara Organix, increased consumer awareness was palpable. “No longer do people just skim the label of farm produces. They check what all chemicals are being pushed with deceptive labels. As the skin is the largest organ, people have started shifting to organic skincare of late,” she said.

Organic produces have also seen a comeback in terms of a back-to-roots mentality, with many embracing items such as cow urine floor cleaners, said project coordinator of Parampara, S Yamini. “People are starting to understand that there are harmful chemicals in the products they were using, which can lead to illness like diabetes or even cancer. Returning to traditional ways, they are learning more on local herbs and produce, and their benefits,” she said, adding the company also runs awareness campaigns on local produces.

Another reason for the interest in organic products is due to the plastic ban and increased environmental awareness, said Sowmiya S, founder of Miya’s Hut, that sells handmade artisanal goods like bags, jewellery boxes and purses.

Farmers too are understanding and turning towards organic methodology in their farming practices, said Anuradha Krishnamoorthy, co-founder of Kase, a cheese company. “Growth in demand will encourage more farmers to switch to organic farming. This, in turn, helps the environment and better animal care. It is a chain reaction that starts with the consumer,” she said.

Moving forward, however, people should have clarity on which all aspects organic and manufacturing processes are better, said Raman Chakravarthy, an attendee. “Manufactured processes have better speed and quantity. Organic produce provides you with better health that will be passed on to coming generations as well,” he said.

Another complaint with organic food is the price point. “Organic farmers grow their produce without accelerating the process or artificially increasing the yield. The product is also of better quality and free from chemicals, and thus worth the money,” said Kayal Vizhi, organiser of the market and founder of Essential Traditions.