On June 7th the United Nations celebrated the first World Food Safety Day. Food safety has become a growing threat to human health and development with almost 1 in 10 people falling ill each year. This disrupt healthcare, national economies, tourism and trade. To champion efforts to increase food safety and safe agricultural practices, the World Health Organization (WHO) is launching this campaign in partnership with the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO).
At Shumei, we believe everyone is entitled to safe, wholesome food grown in harmony with nature. Through Natural Agriculture, we aim to bring the world one step closer to achieving food security and providing communities with natural, nutritious food. By not using fertilizers or animal manure, Natural Agriculture drastically reduces the risks of food-borne illnesses from salmonella-contaminated manure.
Soils do not need manure or chemical fertilizers to yield nourishing crops. It is possible for a healthy soil ecosystem to replenish and regenerate itself. Approaching soil health through cover crop and no-tillage practices can increase soil organic matter and fertility without the use of manure.
At one of our Natural Agriculture farms in Yatesbury, Wiltshire, UK, Shumei farmers demonstrate this manure and fertilizer-free approach and offer farm tours and talks to local farmers and gardeners. Natural Agriculture offers many environmental benefits beyond organic farming, and now there is growing recognition of the benefits of Natural Agriculture for Vegans and those who are especially concerned about food safety and animal manure. BBC 4 Radio On Your Farm visited the Shumei Natural Agriculture Yatesbury Farm to learn more.