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Healthy Diet

Environmentally friendly farming practices that minimize the use of synthetic chemicals and promote sustainable agriculture are gaining popularity in markets around the world, starting with markets in Europe and North America.

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The global organic food and beverage market size was estimated at USD 208.19 billion in 2022 and is expected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 11.7% from 2023 to 2030.

 

One of the key factors driving the market expansion is the growing awareness of organic foods and beverages. Health benefits associated with consuming organic products. Sales of organic food and beverages are expected to increase due to changes in consumer purchasing behavior.

 

Additionally, growing popularity of non-GMO products among consumers is fueling the market growth. Increasing accessibility to organic food and beverages has led to significant growth in the market. Organic products are no longer limited to niche markets or farmers markets.

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  • Harmful effects of pesticides on soil and environment

  • 2023 ~ 2024 food trends

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Effects of Pesticides on Soil and the Environment

Pesticides can impact soil health not only in agricultural settings but also in non-agricultural environments.
These effects vary depending on the type of pesticide used, how it is applied, and environmental factors such as climate and soil conditions.
Below are the key ways pesticides can affect the land.

The impact of pesticides on soil

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Insecticides can have various effects on both agricultural and non-agricultural environments, particularly on soil and surrounding ecosystems. The extent of these impacts depends on the type of pesticide used, the application method, and environmental conditions. Major negative effects include:

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1. Soil Contamination and Degradation of Quality

  • Soil pollution: Insecticides infiltrate the soil, disrupting microbial communities and chemical balance.

  • Loss of fertility: They suppress beneficial microbial activity, hindering nutrient cycling and lowering soil productivity.

  • Persistence: Some insecticides do not degrade easily and may remain in the soil for extended periods, potentially contaminating groundwater and surface water.

2. Water Pollution

  • Runoff and leaching: Rainwater can carry insecticides into nearby rivers or lakes, degrading water quality.

  • Bioaccumulation: Toxic substances may accumulate in aquatic organisms and spread through the food chain.

  • Ecological disruption: Contaminated water bodies can severely affect fish, amphibians, and other aquatic life.

3. Harm to Non-Target Organisms

  • Pollinator damage: Insecticides can be lethal to beneficial insects like bees.

  • Secondary poisoning: Predators or scavengers that consume contaminated prey may also be poisoned indirectly.

4. Pest Resistance and Increased Dependency on Insecticides

  • Repeated use can lead to pests developing resistance, creating a cycle where stronger pesticides are required for control.

5. Decline in Biodiversity

  • Insecticides reduce the diversity of organisms in the surrounding area, destabilizing local ecosystems.

6. Human Health Risks

  • Residual pesticides pose health hazards to farmers, nearby residents, and consumers, potentially causing respiratory issues, skin conditions, and more.

7. Soil Erosion and Loss

  • Pesticide use can weaken soil structure, increasing erosion and sediment runoff into water bodies.

8. Long-Term Environmental Effects

  • Some insecticides persist as Persistent Organic Pollutants (POPs), causing long-lasting environmental harm even after use is discontinued.

 

Sustainable Solutions
To reduce these harmful effects, sustainable practices are essential, including:

  • Integrated Pest Management (IPM)

  • Use of organic or low-toxicity pesticide alternatives

  • Compliance with environmental certification standards and national regulations

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2023–2024 Food Trend Summary

  1. Alternative Pasta on the Rise
    Gluten-free options like lentil, seaweed, and carrot pasta are gaining traction.

Key drivers:

  • More gluten-free and low-carb diets

  • Interest in clean-label products

Examples:

  • Lentil pasta: high in protein and fiber, low in carbs

  • Lupin pasta: sustainable protein, more than chicken

  • “Sustainable protein” searches rose 233% in 5 years

  1. Plant-Based Milk Goes Mainstream
    Oat, cashew, flaxseed, and pea milk are quickly growing in popularity.

  • 40% of U.S. households now buy plant-based milk

  • 2024 market value: $3.1 billion (16% of U.S. milk market)

  • Expansion into ice cream, chocolate, and coffee

Example:
La Colombe launched a plant-based latte line

“Inviting collaboration opportunities for mutual growth and success.”

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