What does ‘organic’ really mean?

Everything Riverford grows, makes and sells is organic – not just when it’s on trend, but 100% of the time.

Most people understand a bit about organic; something to do with not using artificial pesticides? Really organic is so much more than that, with standards covering everything from animal welfare to artificial colours.

Riverford have been farming organically for over 30 years. Here’s why we think it’s the best show in town.

Fundamentally different




How organic actually works

Not being able to rely on quick-fix artificial chemicals has taught organic farmers to use naturally occurring ecological processes to our advantage.

We don’t treat our soil like dirt

Combating climate change

Agriculture is responsible for around one third of all greenhouse gas emissions. In the midst of a climate emergency, organic farming could offer huge benefits…


Artificial fertilisers require vast amounts of energy to produce and transport. Organic farmers use natural fertilisers – often things that would have gone to waste.


Healthy soils store massive amounts of carbon, stopping it from being released into the atmosphere. UK soils alone hold 9.8 billion tonnes of carbon.


Organic practices maximise soil health and carbon storage. If all UK farming went organic, at least 1.3 million tonnes of carbon would be taken up by the soil each year

Can you prove it?

Organic can feed the world

Research by scientists from the UN’s Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) in 2017 found that if food waste and consumption of animal products were both reduced, organic farming could feed a global population of 9 billion sustainably by 2050.

Nutritionally different

Newcastle University researchers found that organic crops are up to 60% higher in key antioxidants than conventionally grown ones, and both organic milk and meat contain around 50% more beneficial omega-3 fatty acids than conventionally produced products.

Better for wildlife

There is growing evidence that certain non-organic pesticides are the primary driver behind the decline of bees and other pollinators worldwide. Conversely, there is around 50% more plant, insect and bird life on the average organic farm, with 30% more species.

Three times a day

you get to vote with your fork


If enough people choose ethical eating, together we can have a real impact.

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Choose 100% organic. Choose Riverford.

Everything we grow, make and sell is 100% organic. Our iconic veg boxes bring you the most flavoursome veg of every season, grown as nature intended.

Choose from a wide selection of seasonal boxes – and top up with organic dairy, drinks, store cupboard staples and more. Delivery is free; no need to be home.

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© 2019 Riverford Organic Farmers Ltd