What does “eating organic” mean to you and your family, and why is it important to you?
I’ve eaten organic and plant-based food all my life, so for me, organic has never been a trend. I often say, “organic is not a lifestyle choice, it is life.” It’s about the soil our food is grown in, the people who produce it, the environment around us and ultimately the food we put on our table. Now that I have my own family, I want my children to grow up understanding that connection too.
Have you always eaten organic and why?
Yes, organic and plant-based food have always been part of my life. For me, it’s about understanding where our food comes from and respecting how it is grown, rather than following a particular trend or way of eating.
For families who feel that eating organic is too expensive, what are your top tips for making it more affordable?
Don’t feel you need to change everything overnight. Start with the everyday foods your family already eats. Cooking oil is a great example. Choosing a good-quality organic oil is a great simple swap. Rice, noodles, oats and pasta are other easy places to start. When your usual pack runs out, replace it with an organic one.
"I tend to focus on the foods we use week in, week out. Rather than buying lots of unfamiliar ingredients simply because they’re organic"
Are there certain foods you always try to buy organic?
I tend to focus on the foods we use week in, week out. Rather than buying lots of unfamiliar ingredients simply because they’re organic, I think it makes more sense to make small swaps to the staples you already eat.
How do you make organic eating practical for busy family life?
For me, it’s about keeping things simple. I plan meals around everyday ingredients and make the most of what we already have. As the weather gets cooler, noodles with seasonal vegetables, tofu and a simple miso broth make an easy family dinner. Miso is also incredibly versatile. I use it in soups, sauces, dressings and marinades.
What are some simple organic swaps families can make this Organic September?
Choose one or two things your family uses all the time and try swapping them for organic. Rice is an easy one. Our new Organic Thai Hom Mali Rice is traditionally grown in Thailand, rainfed and produces just one harvest a year. It’s a lovely reminder that there’s a story behind everyday ingredients.
How do you encourage children or other family members to get involved?
I try to make good ingredients part of the same meals we all enjoy, rather than creating a separate ‘healthy’ meal for the children. Nori is particularly easy. We slice it into strips and leave it on the table so everyone can add their own to rice or noodles.
What is one of your favourite easy organic meals or snacks?
Silken tofu is a favourite because it’s so versatile. I use it in everything from pasta sauces and smoothies to chocolate or strawberry mousse. For a simple dinner, noodles, seasonal vegetables, tofu and miso make a quick, comforting family meal.
What advice would you give families who don’t know where to start?
Start with what you already eat. Make one or two organic swaps and take an interest in where those ingredients come from. Small changes are much easier to maintain than trying to completely change the way you eat.
If readers could take away just one tip about eating organic as a family, what would you want it to be?
Don’t aim for perfection. Think about variety and make small, everyday swaps that work for your family. The changes that become lasting habits are ultimately the most meaningful.
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