Garuda Indonesia Colours Magazine February 2020 | Page 50

Lifestyle / Flavours 1. Only a click away, fresh produce is delivered to your door. results in which levels of particular nutrients, including omega-3 fatty acids, were up to 50 per cent higher in organic meat and milk than in conventional products. For organic farming, leaves from the Mindi or Chinaberry tree (Melia Azedarach L) are used as pest control since they contain a powerful poison. The leaves are crushed, and their juice is sprayed to kill insects. Besides Mindi, oil from the seeds of the Mimba tree (Azadirachta Indica), known as the Neem tree, is widely known as a botanical insecticide. Containing azadirachtin, triol, salanin, and nimbin, Mimba is effective against caterpillars (including larvae of Handeuleum Doleschallia Polibete), ladybirds and leafminers. Tuberous rhizomes such as galangal, ginger, and turmeric have also been adopted as botanical insecticides. These rhizomes and the perennial lemongrass are combined with water and sugarcane juice, then fermented for around 14 days before being used. As well as reducing our exposure to pesticide residues, buying organic means we are getting much fresher produce, as these products don’t contain preservatives. Organic farming practices contribute substantially to the health of the environment by reducing pollution, conserving water, reducing soil depletion, improving soil fertility and consuming less energy. Interestingly, organic farming not only helps preserve 48 1 An increasing number of startups provide consumers with fresh produce delivered to their door, while organic restaurants are springing up in cities such as Jakarta, Bogor, and Bandung. natural habitats, but also encourages birds and other predators to live happily on farmland, assisting in natural pest control. In Indonesia, organic farming is observed by the National Organic Certification Bodies, known as LSO (Lembaga Sertifikasi Organik). The LSO ensures farmers meet agreed organic standards. Organic-based processed food comes under the watch of the National Agency of Drug and Food Control of the Republic of Indonesia, known as Badan POM. The tasks and purposes of this agency are similar to the US Food and Drug Administration. Finding organic vegetables and dairy products in Indonesia today is easy, as the Internet means many items are just a click away. An increasing number of startups with websites and apps provide consumers with fresh produce delivered to their door. You can even buy directly from the organic farmers and have the produce delivered. However, should you want to treat your taste buds without the bother of preparation, organic restaurants are springing up in cities such as Jakarta, Bogor, Bandung, Yogyakarta, Denpasar, and Medan. They provide interesting menus ranging from baby porridge, meatballs, noodles, fried chicken, and satay to burgers and pizza. Balancing the goals of adopting a healthier diet and contributing to a better environment has never been easier.