All English Tea Shop’s teas are 100% organic whatever their blend of leaves, herbs and flowers. So, we’re celebrating Organic September with a reminder of the reasons we love chemical-free farming.
The organic movement started in the 1940s when people concerned about the post-war shift to more intensive farming began combining traditional methods with science.
Unlike many other environmental claims, the term ‘organic’ is legally protected. This means to be certified organic a product must meet strict criteria on how it is grown, made and sold. Organic farms are inspected by a certification body at least once a year.
For us, going organic started with one simple purpose: to make tea that cares for the farmers and workers who grow it. And along that journey, we’re proud that our commitment has also supported the wider principles of Organic September – helping the climate, protecting nature, and making sure your tea tastes as good as it should.
Better for the planet
Residue from chemicals used for farming can reduce bee populations and seep into the water supply, killing other wildlife. The organic system relies on nature’s own processes instead. It keeps the soil healthy and supports biodiversity too.
Organic farming avoids artificial pesticides. Instead, birds and beneficial bugs such as ladybirds and beetles are encouraged to keep pests at bay, while the choice and rotation of crops minimises disease.
Even natural pesticides such as citronella and clove oil are only used as a last resort in restricted circumstances.
Weedkillers are completely banned in organic farming. Instead, weeds are managed mechanically or by growing plants which act as a natural suppressant alongside crops.
In place of synthetic fertilisers, derived from planet damaging fossil fuel, compost, animal and plant-based manure can be used.
The greatest nourishment however comes from good, fertile soil established by rotating crops and growing nutrient-giving plants in the fallow periods.
Healthy soil in turn stores more carbon, so it’s a win-win for the planet.
Better for farmers
At English Tea Shop, as part of our Creating Shared Value model, we give training and support to farmers in Sri Lanka to encourage their switch to organic methods.
Going organic has helped us build long-lasting relationships with our farmers because we work with them directly rather than buying tea through the shared auction system.
Better for you
Eating and drinking organic reduces your exposure to the chemicals used in mass food production.
In addition, many artificial colours and preservatives are banned from organic food and drink, as are hydrogenated fats. Organic systems also prohibit the use of controversial genetically modified crops.
Because organic farming concentrates on creating naturally richer soils you’re also likely to notice food and drink produced this way has a better flavour.
Look out for the Soil Association logo to be assured something is certified organic.
Organic September 2025
The theme of this year’s Organic September is ‘Nourishing your gut garden’. The Soil Association is encouraging us all to encourage a thriving eco system in our own bodies by incorporating more organic food and drink into our diets.
Find out more about Organic September and the benefits of nature-based farming here.