FAQs
Chances are that your question has been asked before. Take a look here first before using the contact form to ask what, where or why.
What is agroecology?
Agroecology is a sustainable and holistic approach to farming that applies ecological principles to agricultural practices. There are many different ways to farm agroecologically, but they all work with nature, and provide environmental, economic and social benefits. Key principles include:
- Working with the natural environment and making the most of the land and natural resources without damaging or exploiting them; improving habitats to encourage biodiversity, and supporting healthy soil.
- Prioritising long term sustainability by using efficient working practices; supporting local supply chains, and recycling resources.
- Guaranteeing high animal welfare standards including a free-range life; suitable living, transport and slaughter conditions; GM-free food, and avoiding the routine use of antibiotics.
- Adapting to suit the local natural, social and economic climate by using and sharing local knowledge and traditional, sustainable agricultural methods; encouraging diversity, and supporting local livelihoods.
- Focusing on producing food that is healthy and nutritious.
- Not using artificial chemicals, including artificial fertilisers, pesticides, herbicides or preservatives.
- Not using any genetically modified inputs, such as in animal feeds or as ingredients in a product.
What is an order cycle?
“Food grows in cycles, farmers harvest in cycles, and we order food in cycles.”
– Open Food Network
An order cycle is the period of time our shop front is open for customers to place an order. We run a weekly order cycle that opens at 2pm on Fridays and closes at 5.30am on Wednesdays. During this time, our shop is open for orders.
How much is delivery?
We charge a 10% distribution fee to cover our costs, which is added to the price producers set for their produce and is paid for by customers. The Good Food Loop invoices customers quarterly for distribution fees due.
The Open Food Network allows for transparent pricing, providing a breakdown of costs for every product that customers can view in the shop front before purchase – just click the pie chart on the product listing to see more.
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