Mine is an organic farm. As you know, only organic lemons are produced in my lemon grove. This means everything happens naturally, in total respect of plants, soil, and the environment. Choosing to practice organic farming is a very deliberate decision, one that I feel deeply connected to and that stems from a series of evaluations I want to share with you in this article.

Intensive farming has increased yields but has also introduced various environmental issues. Loss of soil fertility, contamination of groundwater and surface water, increased energy consumption and loss of biodiversity are phenomena that anyone who, like me, loves the land and recognizes its value and vital role cannot ignore. We must ask ourselves what can be done to counter them.

Doing my part: this is the main reason that led me to convert my grandfather Vincenzo’s lemon grove from conventional farming to organic farming.  

But what is organic farming and what are its benefits? What are its definition and meaning? What type of farming does organic farming oppose? How does it differ from traditional farming? The difference between these two approaches lies essentially in the fact that organic farming excludes the use of synthetic chemical products (fertilizers, herbicides, insecticides) for soil fertilization and pest and weed control.

Organic or non-organic lemons: that is the dilemma!

Organic farming has developed responsible production practices for our planet and is regulated by precise rules. What guarantees you that you're facing an organic product that complies with the current European Community Regulations (2018/848) concerning organic farming practices is, primarily, the product's label or accompanying band: both must contain specific information regarding organic production, such as the name and address of the operator/owner and seller of the product; the name of the product; the European logo; and the code number assigned by the State to the organic control body that has carried out its checks on the producer. However, there is a way to identify a certified organic fruit simply and independently. How? It's simple: observe its appearance!

How can we spot at first glance an organic lemon, meaning a lemon from organic farming like those produced at my farm? Below are some helpful tips.

First, make sure it is firm and not overly shiny, meaning it is free from waxes and other synthetic “enhancing” substances. Remember that an organic lemon differs from a treated one, which is typically perfectly shaped and free of imperfections, precisely because of its raw and imperfect appearance. It is unlikely you will find a completely flawless organic lemon because, to achieve high aesthetic standards, the producer cannot avoid excessive use of chemical products that eliminate pests and, along with them, all organisms that are part of the biological equilibrium of the farm’s ecosystem.

The “secret,” in short, lies in the peel. In fruits obtained from organic farming, the peel appears rough, making it less appealing at first glance when purchasing. Yet, an imperfect peel guarantees maximum safety in terms of edibility. Simply put, the peel of an organic lemon is entirely edible. What does edible peel mean? It means you can eat it without worrying about fungicides, pesticides or chemical waxes, which are typically used in treated lemons to extend their longevity at the expense of our health.

Iolanda