What is the difference between biodynamic and organic?

We often hear about biodynamic and organic agriculture. But what are the differences? Let's find out together.

Organic farming aims to produce foods of high nutritional quality and flavour, avoiding the use of artificial fertilizers or synthetic chemicals, with limited use of the same ones found in nature.

Biodynamic farming takes these rigorous standards to the next level. Any external products are strictly kept to a minimum and farmers focus on building a self-sustaining production process to both grow feed for their animals and produce fertilizer through natural composting methods.

Biodynamics is a holistic practice, where all aspects of the farm are considered to be closely related living systems. This philosophy extends to animals, soil, plants and the entire surrounding environment. The goal of biodynamic agriculture is to produce highly quality food, creating healthier food options, while creating a healthier agricultural ecosystem. Healthy plants and healthy animals create healthier soils that replenish the earth by building fertility from within.

Biodynamic or organic farming: which came first?

The concepts of "intentional" organic and biodynamic are quite recent. They arise as a response to damage caused by unnatural fertilizers, pesticides and other chemicals.

Biodynamic agriculture was born in 1924, the first modern form of intentional organic agriculture. The term "organic farming" came into being a few years later, in 1940, introduced by Lord Northbourne in his book "Look to the Land".

The "Father" of biodynamic agriculture is without a doubt the Austrian philosopher Dr Rudolf Steiner.

Steiner presented a series of lectures to a group of German farmers, who had been experiencing problems with deteriorating plant and animal health on their farms. These lessons marked the birth of the biodynamic movement and still constitute the foundation of the modern biodynamic agricultural method today.

Standards for animal care

Industrial farming methods that cause unnecessary suffering to animals are completely contrary to the core values ​​that encompass both biodynamic and organic farming.

Organic and biodynamic farmers care for their animals in a way that supports the "full expression of their nature". This means that the animals are given feed that is appropriate for their digestive and immune systems.

Feed the animals

Here is one of the main differences between organic and biodynamic agriculture.

As a rule, both biodynamic and organic farmers feed their animals only certified biodynamic/organic feed. However, in organic farming, any amount of organic feed can come from outside the farm.

When it comes to biodynamics, the feed produced on the farm must form the basis of animal nutrition. The ultimate goal is complete self-sufficiency.

Give back to the environment

How do you give back to the earth?

Both organic and biodynamic farmers try to allocate part of their business activities to areas dedicated to biodiversity. Biodynamic farming takes it a step further with the incorporation of biodynamic soil management and preparations into the overall farm, including biodiversity areas.

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