Biodynamic and Regenerative Farming - Sustainable Agriculture to Support the Future of Food - Nutritionist's Column Vol. 136

In recent years, we have been seeing more and more keywords such as " biodynamic farming " and " regenerative farming."
Both approaches are essential for creating " food of the future ," which places greater emphasis on coexistence with the environment than traditional agricultural styles.

Rather than simply growing crops, we cultivate the soil, conserve water, and balance the entire ecosystem .
This kind of " agriculture that nurtures the earth " is now quietly but surely beginning to spread all over the world.

What is biodynamic farming?

Biodynamic agriculture is a farming method proposed by the Austrian thinker Rudolf Steiner in the 1920s .

The greatest feature of this farming method is that it treats the field as a living organism and cultivates in harmony with the rhythm of the universe .
This unique method involves sowing seeds in accordance with the movement of the moon and stars, and increasing the energy of the soil with a unique mixture made from cow dung and medicinal herbs.

It may seem spiritual at first glance, but it has also been scientifically proven to have some effectiveness.
For example, German research has shown that tomatoes grown using biodynamic farming methods have up to 30 % higher polyphenol content than tomatoes grown using conventional farming methods. Furthermore, they are also attracting attention for their high nutritional value, as they contain a natural balance of nutrients such as vitamin C , iron, and calcium .

What is regenerative farming?

Regenerative agriculture is a next-generation sustainable agriculture method that aims to regenerate soil and restore ecosystems.
In recent years, it has been attracting attention from many environmental organizations and countries that are advanced in organic farming.

The main features include the following techniques:

• No-till cultivation : Tilling the soil as little as possible to maintain the activity of soil microorganisms
• Use of cover crops : Prevents nutrient and water loss and protects the soil
• Natural grazing and crop rotation : Utilizing the natural cycles of plants and animals to enrich the soil

This approach revitalizes the soil, allowing crops to be grown that are rich in natural minerals and phytochemicals . American research has shown that vegetables grown using regenerative farming methods contain 21 % more calcium, 29 % more magnesium, and 17 % more iron than those grown using conventional farming methods.

In other words, restoring a healthy nutrient cycle from soil to crops to humans is the essence of regenerative farming.

" Earth-nurturing agriculture " is gaining popularity in Japan

This type of farming method is by no means a trend exclusive to overseas countries.
In Japan, too, the number of farmers practicing biodynamic and regenerative farming methods is increasing .

It is not just about using no pesticides or chemical fertilizers; the idea that "the vitality of the soil is what supports the health of crops " is becoming more widespread.
The new common sense that "healthy vegetables come from healthy soil" is beginning to take hold not only among farmers but also among consumers .

Our dining table will change the future

Of course, these farming methods are time-consuming and labor-intensive, in stark contrast to modern agriculture, which emphasizes efficiency.
However, the number of producers taking on the challenge is increasing because they feel a sense of responsibility and hope for the future.

Behind every dish we eat lies the efforts of countless people and the work of the earth over many generations.
When you think about it this way, the everyday act of eating becomes an action that nurtures the future.

So what can we do?

• Choose biodynamic vegetables and wine
• Supporting farmers who practice regenerative farming methods
• Become interested in where food comes from and how it is grown

These small choices will eventually become a big wave towards a sustainable society .
And that step delivers nutrients that are kind to both the earth and our own bodies.

GRØN 's goal of "natural nutritional supplementation through plant-based protein" is supported by this very future-oriented agriculture.
We hope that your dish will be a step towards nurturing the future of the Earth.

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GRØN's protein blends are made from plants lovingly grown by farmers with minimal processing.

▼Protein recommended for beginners▼
STARTER SET Starter Kit | Welcome Set

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Nutritionist, Food Education Instructor, Food 6th Industry Producer Level 4
Ayako Ishihara

Nutritional guidance in the healthcare field and agribusiness professional.
She is involved in a variety of activities in the fields of beauty and health, including giving lectures to Miss World Japan candidates.

With the philosophy of "enriching the mind and body through food and realizing a vibrant society where people and communities are connected," he founded i-Field Co., Ltd. in 2013 and serves as its representative.
He is a core member of the food team for "DINING OUT," which holds outdoor restaurants in various regions, and also participates in fashion brand projects.
She is also involved in promoting local ingredients, product development and production specializing in "health" and "beauty," branding, concept design, food hygiene, sales promotion, and training planning and management. She is in charge of nutritional supervision for GRØN's product development, proposing ways to incorporate these ingredients more effectively into consumer health.
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