In Ireland, like in many other European countries, farmers have started to question the 'blessings' of modern agriculture. The reason why Irish farmers, in growing numbers, decide to farm organically is probably the fact, that many of them can still remember the times, when all farming was organic. They have not forgotten the satisfaction they once got from farming, compared to the frustration they get from European agricultural policy today. They have realised that modern agriculture is ugly, smells, and destroys Ireland's unique landscapes, producing high-risk foods with no taste.

Now they farm organically. Away with all the pesticides and boring mono-cultures! Enjoyment is back on the farms, animal welfare is there to stay and farmers are proud of the food they produce. They maintain a countryside for which visitors come to Ireland, more visitors than people live in Ireland!

However, from now on, you don't have to come to Ireland to eat organic lamb!

... and how they farm organically

Irish standards for organic lamb cover all aspects of the upbringing of lambs under environmental and welfare considerations. They make sure that in these days of animal mass production, every animal on an organic farm gets the amount of individual attention it needs - we call it real 'husbandry'.

When the lambs are turned out in spring, fields with a wide variety of grass, clovers, and herbs are waiting for them. This wide plant selection is only possible because organic farmers do not use artificial fertilisers and weed killers. To let pastures and meadows grow naturally produces a different food for the organic lambs.

Apart from food , the organic standards cover housing and medication as well. Animal welfare is very high on the agenda. Resting space, feeding space - everything is defined. Even the paints which can be used in the shed.

Once a lamb is not well, we always look into softer solutions. Homeopathy, herbal remedies or means our grandfathers would have used. However, most animals on organic farms live a happy, healthy life.

The standards for organic production include more than farming issues: animal transport, at the abattoir, carcass storage and transport.