TeraGanix Blog

Anaerobic Fermentation: A Convenient Alternative to Traditional Composting

2012-02-09T15:36:00.000-08:00

Many eco-conscious individuals are interested in composting food waste, but are reluctant to incorporate composting into their lives for a myriad of reasons. Compost heaps can be laborious. It takes a fair amount of time and effort to maintain a healthy compost heap. You must churn the compost to aerate the pile. Traditional compost piles can also take up a lot of space and you must constantly monitor the pile for a proper brown (carbon) to green (nitrogen) compound ratio. Worse yet, a compost pile can become a disgusting, smelly, maggot-ridden mess if not given the proper care.

For these reasons, many individuals and families decide against composting. If you are apprehensive about composting where you live, there is a far easier, less smelly and less insect-ridden option: anaerobic fermentation. Anaerobic fermentation is like composting, but without oxygen – which, consequently, is at the root of most of the problems that people experience with composting. Rather than relying on oxygen-rich decomposition, the organic matter is broken down without oxygen via fermentation.

What is Anaerobic Fermentation?

Anaerobic fermentation is an alternative to traditional composting. Unlike composting, anaerobic fermentation is a preserving process – meaning matter is not broken down and nutrients are preserved in bio-available forms for plants. While not technically compost, the fermentation process achieves similar desired results – organic material is eventually broken down to produce a desirable end product that builds soils that grows vigorous plants. In the case of fermentation, the final product is a nutrient-rich humus, the perfect slow-release organic fertilizer for gardens.

Fermentation is different than compost in that it does not produce foul smelling gases and is in general far less attractive to unwanted insects or flies. It also does not require any turning of piles so it is virtually maintenance-free! Anaerobic fermentation utilizes a specific set of anaerobic organisms found in EM•1® Microbial Inoculant that stabilize nutrients such as ammonia and convert it to amino acids, the building blocks for proteins and vitamins. The good microbes produce dozens of enzymes as well that accelerate various chemical reactions in the soil, including polysaccharide synthesis (glues that hold soil particles together and retain moisture for drought tolerance). In this antioxidant-rich environment pathogenic organisms cannot survive and beneficial organisms thrive. As good microbe populations grow and added directly to soil, they provide a source of food for worms. Worm eat microorganisms. They also secrete various substances that control pathogens and hold soils together as they drill through soil layers, aerating the soils as they hunt for food.

What’s the Easiest Way to Start Anaerobic Composting?

EM•1® Bokashi is perhaps the easiest, most trusted and reliable method of anaerobic composting for the home. Bokashi is Japanese for “fermented organic matter,” and while it is commonly referred to as a type of composting, in truth it is technically anaerobic fermentation. Bokashi powder on its own is simply a fermented wheat bran powder that enables the fermentation process, kind of like a starter culture. EM•1® Bokashi is a more effective mix of organic rice bran, and beneficial microorganisms including fungi and bacteria, which promote a healthy fermentation environment and accelerate the compost process.

What’s so Great About EM•1® Bokashi?

EM•1® Bokashi is particularly popular because:

It is easy, requiring far less attention and virtually no churning.
It is faster than traditional composting – several weeks as opposed to several months.
It is almost completely odor-free and does not attract flies and subsequent maggots, rats, etc.
It takes up very little space – all you need is a bucket (or two so you can rotate between the two), though it can be increased to a larger scale if needed.
You can use EM•1® Bokashi on all food wastes including dairy and meat.

Top Trends for 2012 Eco-Friendly Home

2012-01-17T08:29:00.000-08:00

Over the past few years we have seen a decided move towards eco-friendly homes and lifestyles. 2012 is likely to continue that trend, with new products and common practices making sustainable living more convenient than ever.

Here are the top forecasted trends for 2012.

Improved Efficiency

More green builders and eco-friendly citizens are seeking out strategies for a more efficient home. This trend is all about making efficiency cost-effective and effortless. Homes are trending smaller, with proper insulation and energy efficient windows. Market trends and government tax credits make installing solar panels more affordable than ever before and “greywater recycling” systems allow the home owner to reuse water from sinks and bathtubs. Likewise, rain barrels are a very simple method for collecting rainwater for yard use.

More Composting

Most eco-conscious families are already recycling plastic, aluminum and paper, but new composting systems are making it even easier to recycle food waste at home. Bokashi composting uses fermentation rather than aeration to break down food into nutrient-rich compost and/or compost tea. Mixed with EM-1® kitchen composting accelerant, the result is a faster, less smelly and bug-free compost cycle. This system is fantastic for dense urban communities as there is virtually no decomposition smell to offend neighbors and the only space needed is a couple five-gallon buckets and a place to bury the fermented food wastes. For homes that rely on septic tanks, the very same technology can be applied for septic tank maintenance. Naturally occurring septic tank enzymes and bacteria are supplemented to the tank for greater decomposition efficiency. The result is fewer odors, lower maintenance costs, improved drainfield performance and reduced groundwater pollution.

The Diner Table

Knowledgeable consumers understand that diet not only affects their family’s health but can also impact the environment. Many families are adopting a “paleo style” approach to eating, eliminating overtly processed foods and opting for nutrient dense “real” foods. When given the choice they will always select organically-grown produce and prefer locally sourced foods that require fewer fossil fuels to move from farm to table. They select meats that are produced on farms that are certified organic and avoid mega-farms that produce meat in a non-sustainable way. Many families have even begun producing their own vegetables, fruit, and herbs, or raising their own chickens in backyard coops. Using EM Technology® in your garden will help you produce fruits and vegetables that have higher vitamins and minerals and enzymes. You can also use EM Technology® around chicken coops to control odors and help keep the area clean. Add a little EM Bokashi to the ground area for scratching and the birds will be happy. If raising ducks, you can also add some EMX® Ceramics and EM-1® to keep the water they swim in clean.

Reducing Chemical Output

Most households use and expel dangerous chemicals in their home, including bleach, ammonia, drain cleaner, detergent and hard surface cleaners. These chemicals wash down the drain and end up in our community’s soil and ground water. They may also aggravate chemical sensitivities in family members. For this reason, many families are actively replacing chemically-laden products with green cleaning agents. Likewise eco-families are replacing chemical fertilizers in their gardens and lawns with organic soil amendments and conditioners that naturally improve soil quality without chemical runoff. The result is a home and garden free of harsh chemicals and the associated risks.

Additionally, growing plants in the home helps keep the air inside clean and rich in oxygen. Some plants such as Gerbera Daisies are known to remove Benzene from the air. If you have a new home, off-gassing from chemicals in the building materials could cut down simply by growing some plants inside. Plants also provide therapeutic benefits and aesthetic benefit to a home. Growing better plants is easy using juice from the fermented food buckets to provide a liquid fertilizer and spraying some EM-1® on the plants once or twice per week.

What is EM Technology?

2012-01-16T10:56:00.000-08:00

Teragainx is proud to be the exclusive North American distributor of Dr. Higa’s EM Technology®, including EM-1 Effective Microorganisms®, EM® Bokashi and EM® Ceramics. EM Technology® utilizes predominantly facultative microorganisms to enhance agricultural, medical and nutritional processes and products. These naturally-occurring organisms have proven highly effective in a diverse array of applications, from livestock odor control to micronutrient fertilizer amendment and even as a part of daily probiotic cleanse supplement.

EM Technology® embraces the fact that certain microbes are the cornerstone of a properly functioning ecosystem, be that system your garden, a livestock farm or your digestive tract. It harnesses the power of naturally-occurring microbes such as lactic acid bacteria, photosynthethetic bacteria, and beneficial yeast to positively influence the decomposition process. As Dr. Higa explains, decomposition of organic matter is a necessary part of a healthy environment and is, in fact, a “life promoting” process.

A professor in the Department of Agriculture at the University of Ryukyus in Okinawa, Japan, Dr. Teruo Higa has revolutionized sustainable agriculture through his development of EM Technology®. His company is structured upon 8 key principals: low cost, high quality, safety, convenience, co-existence, co-prosperity, exchange of information, and sustainability. The company strives to reflect the product it produces. The microorganisms of EM-1 co-exist, co-prosper, exchange information, are sustainable, safe, efficient, and highly effective. If only human behavior could mimic these simple microbes.

These beneficial microorganisms are found is all aspects of nature, from rock crevices to your digestive tract! For this reason, their applications are myriad. Best of all, it is 100% organic, completely natural and will not contaminate your environments or aggravate chemical sensitivities.

EM Technology® EM-1® Applications

Household cleaning
Deodorizing the home
Pet odor control
Bathing & skin care
Septic tank maintenance
Indoor plant care
Pond maintenance
Soil amendment for gardens or agriculture
Drought control
Aquaculture
Hydroponics
Greenhouse maintenance
Foliar feeding
Hydrogen sulfide removal
Ammonia removal, reduction & control
Hydrogen Sulfide Odor Control
Waste water management
Corrosion control

EM® Bokashi Application

Fermentation of compost
Compost accelerant
Compost Teas

EM-X® Ceramics Applications

Natural Water Conditioning for Home, Wells & Agriculture
Infrared therapy

Pro EM-1® Applications

Over-all digestive health
Improved nutrient absorption
Purge toxins from the digestive tract
Improve immunity
Treatment for a variety of gastrointestinal conditions such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and Crohn’s disease
Alleviate certain allergies
Stave off yeast infections (Candida albicans) and urinary infections
Weight maintenance

The Benefits of Probiotics & How to Choose a Probiotic

2012-01-10T12:55:00.000-08:00

The human digestive system relies on a series of beneficial microorganisms and digestive enzymes in order to properly digest and support the immune system. These human-friendly microbes are often referred to as beneficial bacteria or "probiotics" and are a critical component of healthy digestion. A growing body of scientific research supports regularly introducing live beneficial bacteria to the digestive tract in order to aid digestion, enhance the immune system, and prevent chronic illness. These tiny creatures aid in breaking down food matter and keep some harmful pathogens at bay.

One method for introducing these organisms is regularly ingesting foods fermented with beneficial bacteria, such as probiotic yogurt, kimchee and various fermented beverages. Many of these foods contain some variety, or strain, of beneficial microbes. They are normally from one or two different genus and, therefore, not very diverse in species makeup. Diverse species is important because one species or one genus of microbe only produces one set of metabolites. More metabolites (enzymes, vitamins, trace minerals, bacteriocins, etc.) mean more dietary and immune support. Metabolites are only produced during metabolic activity. So, if there is no activity, the metabolites are not being produced. Metabolic activity takes place during active fermentation and maturing.

We would like to make a note on yogurt. Most yogurts on the market are not fermented. The milk is often thickened with some type of acid (acetic acid, vinegar, citric acid, etc.) and are inoculated with freeze dried cultures at some point during the processing of the food and then refrigerated to keep the cultures from growing while in storage (no metabolic activity). This means the milk base is not properly pre-digested by the live microbes and you do not get all the benefits of the metabolites that would have been produced by the microbes during an actual fermentation process. There are some yogurts on the market that are fermented. Make sure they are clearly marked on the label. Kefir is another fermented milk product that uses multiple species of microbes and is fermented.

For many, however, these "fermented foods" are not readily available, inconvenient or not compatible with their dietary requirements. Some people may wish to use non-soy, non-dairy, or wheat-free probiotics. For these individuals, a more efficient and reliable solution would be finding the right probiotic supplement to fit their dietary needs. And, since many fermented foods are made with low diversity, getting all you need from food sources becomes very difficult.

Benefits of Probiotic Supplements

Allows you to efficiently deliver an appropriate amount of beneficial bacteria and digestive enzymes to your digestive tract on a regular basis.
Improves digestion and nutrient absorption.
Aids in the expulsion of toxins from the digestive system.
Shown to improve immunity and stave off certain illnesses.
Proven to be an effective treatment for chronic or intermittent diarrhea.
Treats several gastrointestinal conditions that have long mystified conventional medicine, such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and Crohn's disease.
Shown to alleviate allergies in children.
Helps to control the yeast that causes yeast infections (Candida albicans).
Believed to stave off and treat urinary infections in women.
Can be used to support long-term weight loss.

Choosing a Probiotic Supplement

In the US, probiotic products are currently classified and sold as dietary supplements, so they are not subject to the testing and approval process that pharmaceutical drugs would be. For this reason, it is critical that you select a probiotic supplement from a manufacturer like Dr. Higa’s EM Technology® that is respected by both the medical and scientific communities. Look for organizations are based out of first-world countries that culturally value probiotic treatment, such as Japan, Sweden or Norway.

Choose a probiotic supplement that uses raw, fermented beneficial bacteria that uses all-natural and certified organic ingredients. It should contain live (never freeze dried), non-genetically modified microorganisms. You can also find a probiotic that does not contain preservatives, animal products, dairy, wheat and/or soy. There are multiple beneficial bacteria strains, so look for a probiotic that utilizes groups of synergistic naturally-occurring microbes. Also, be sure to choose a probiotic cleanse that is gentle enough for daily use.

Different Types of Community Gardens

2011-12-19T11:09:00.000-08:00

In the last installment of our community garden series, we are presenting the most common types of community gardens. A community garden can take many shapes and forms depending on the desired benefits and objectives as well as the available land. A community garden may be a place to grow plants, vegetables, herbs or flowers among the company of neighbors and friends. It could also be a collection of individual plots that are each tended by an individual gardener or a sanctuary where individuals can learn or heal. There are many ways to organize a community garden, but there are a few methods that are the most common, including neighborhood gardens, allotment gardens, donation gardens, school gardens, therapy gardens and market gardens. A community garden can be one of these or a hybrid of several styles of garden.

Neighborhood Gardens

A neighborhood garden is a plot of land that a group of neighbors tend together as a group. These gardens often consist of both edible and decorative plants and are frequently viewed as something akin to a park for the community. A neighborhood garden strengthens community bonds while also beautifying the neighborhood.

Allotment Gardens

Allotment gardens are typically vacant lots that are divided into individual plots. These plots are then assigned to individuals who tend the plots in whatever fashion they like. These gardens are popular with individuals who enjoy gardening but do not have a yard of their own. The result is a beautiful patchwork of different gardens that provide fulfillment to individuals and natural beauty to the community as a whole.

Donation Gardens

Donation gardens focus on growing edible crops for philanthropic reasons. The resulting food is given to local food pantries and homeless shelters. Most donation gardens focus on organic produce and rely on natural fertilizers and organic soil conditioners for a healthy, robust yield. These gardens also often produce their own compost using left over food stuff and vegetation. Because the garden is city-central, we recommend the Bokashi compost fermentation system rather than traditional decomposition, as it is much faster and does not emit foul odors into the community.

School Gardens

School gardens give urban children a chance to experience horticulture in a way that is normally unavailable. These gardens focus on teaching children about sustainable agriculture, science, and applied mathematics in a hands-on gardening atmosphere. The interaction also provides personal growth, as they develop their ability to work as a team, learn life skills, and develop social skills. The result is a more knowledgeable child with a strong sense of accomplishment. Schools can also benefit from collecting cafeteria wastes and converting it into soil amendments. These types of projects help children learning recycling and growing plants. Because there is less waste going into dumpsters, there are less hauling costs.

Therapy Gardens

The purpose of a therapy garden is to provide emotional, spiritual or physical rehabilitation to those who need it. These types of community gardens are popular with hospitals, elder care facilities, therapy centers, substance abuse rehabilitation centers, and special needs schools. Therapy gardens are based on the principal that humans crave connectedness with nature. A green space encourages exercise and introspection, both of which are healing.

Market Gardens

As demand continues to increase for fresh local produce, so does the demand for market gardens. A market garden is a community garden that is farmed for profit as a source of supplemental income for lower income families. These gardens allow needy individuals to raise their own cash crops for sale to restaurants, individuals and at farmers markets.

Rooftop and Balcony Gardens

In many urban areas, space is limited...or so one would think. One just need look up to see there are acres of surface area that can be converted to food-producing areas. These farms can supply local produce to fit any of the above types of gardens. They also help provide much needed oxygen and clean air in these urban areas. Several cities, New York and Chicago in particular, are boasting multiple rooftop gardens. The sites are selected for a variety of reasons such as location to low rent and a strong roof. Soil is hauled up to the roof and beds are developed for planting. Irrigation lines are installed and a farm is set up on top of a building. Areas are left for composting and collecting rainwater as well.

How to Start a Community Garden

2011-12-16T10:49:00.000-08:00

Our recent post on The Greenbelt Overhaul Alliance of Levittown’s (G.O.A.L.) land remediation projects generated a lot of interest in community gardens. After years of over-industrialization and economic hardship, many inner city communities are undergoing a Renaissance of sorts. Urban dwellers are reclaiming their neighborhoods, supporting local businesses and courting responsible development. Part of this movement is the inclusion of community gardens. Increasing urban green space not only infuses the community with natural beauty, but it can reverse ecological damage, improve property values, and impart a sense of community and connectedness.

The following is a quick 10 step guide to starting your own community garden using ecologically sound methods.

No Man is an Island – Organize a Community Garden Group

A group as small as 3 can start a community garden, but – in general – the more individuals you involve, the more the community will support the project. With permission, post notices in local coffee shops and business windows. Invite neighbors, local tenants, business owners and the like. Utilize existing organizations and civic groups. Some great volunteer resources include neighborhood centers, youth groups, schools, seniors groups, congregations, homeless shelters and even rehabilitation / treatment centers. Look for folks invested in the community and looking to make a difference.

Get Organized – Determine the Project’s Leadership and Scope

Determine who will lead / plan the initiative. This should be a group of 3 to 5 people who have the organization skills, time and enthusiasm to make the project a success. They will be responsible for fund-raising, scheduling, delegation, construction planning and overall communication, so they should be up to the task at hand. The leaders should also organize collective meetings where the project scope is hammered out.

Define Who You Are – What Kind of Community Garden Will You Create?

Determine the type of garden the community requires. Should it be a vegetable or flower garden? Perhaps a combination of both? What purpose does the garden serve? Is it purely a beautification project? Or should it be a place to teach children about sustainable agriculture? Will it be organic? If it produces foodstuff, who should benefit from the harvests? Next, brainstorm ideas for fund-raising and set rules for the garden’s use and participation.

Take Root – Choose a Garden Site

Contact your local municipal planners about possible sites. Visit each site and determine the best location. Some things to consider when you visit a site include sunshine exposure, water access, and soil quality. I recommend testing the soil for prohibitive levels of pollution. Once you decide on a location, find out who owns the land. Will they allow your community garden team to lease for at least three years? (Often they will for virtually nothing… especially if the prospective garden space is adjacent to an income-generating building – as a garden almost always enhances the building’s attractiveness.) Lastly, find out if public liability insurance will be necessary.

Find Your Strength – Identify What Resources the Neighborhood Has At Your Disposal

Contact local horticultural societies and see if they can provide information on the best plants for the region and garden conditions. Call local landscaping and gardening companies and see if any are interested in providing pro-bono horticultural expertise. These types of organizations / business are often the best partners a community garden can have.

Get Funded – Find a Sponsor or Develop an Alternative Funding Model

There are a number of creative ways to fund a community garden initiative, including regular fund raisers and long-term sponsorships. Do a sweep of all the local businesses and explain the project and its objective. They may be able to offer their support in one way or another. If one or several businesses offer to sponsor the project, your garden might feature an official plaque in their honor. Some community gardens self-fund with small monthly dues or occasional fund-raising projects.

Prepare for Success – Prepare the Garden Space

This is the labor intensive part. Chances are, your space will require considerable preparation. Organize a team (or teams) to clean the space and clear away debris. In most cases, the soil will be very low quality so it is important to prep and churn the soil with an organic soil amendment that will bolster the overall nutrient level. Because of the plot’s general isolation from the natural world, you should treat the ground with a quality microbial inoculant product that will reintroduce all the beneficial soil organisms necessary for a healthy ecology. This will result in soil that is hospitable to plant life and resistant to both drought and water erosion.

Plants Need Neighborhoods Too – Organize the Garden

Decide how the garden will be organized and map out the plot arrangement. A common method for marking different flower bed zones is to use string and stakes to create visual lines or boundaries. Be sure to section off an area for a shed where you can store and lock away equipment. Also keep an area where you can collect food wastes from the members and compost them or make worm castings. It is nice to include pathways between plots and to surround the garden with beautiful flowers and shrubs. Try to find ones that have bright colors and are scented to attract beneficial insects and people. It goes without saying, but it is important to make the area look pleasing so that it becomes a beloved feature of the community. Once the garden is properly planned, assign areas to different subgroups and begin planting.

You are a Community – So Be Sure to Communicate

The community garden will require consistent attention and seasonal updates so it’s important to keep the community in contact. A monthly email newsletter is an easy method for staying in touch. Some community groups create websites for updates and forums. Consider monthly meetings as well to establish schedules and bolster the sense of community. You may even identify new community projects to undertake as a group in the future.

Look to the Future – Seek Out Other Ways to Improve Your Neighborhood

During your monthly meeting, brainstorm other possible garden locations or projects that may contribute to the development of your neighborhood.

To find out more about community gardening, visit the American Community Garden Association and the Urban Harvest websites.

G.O.A.L. Successes With Effective Microorganisms®

2011-12-02T10:49:00.000-08:00

G.O.A.L. (The Greenbelt Overhaul Alliance of Levittown) is a non-profit organization, founded in 2009 by Dale Frazier, in Levittown, Pennsylvania. GOAL is dedicated to cleaning Levittown, PENN greenways and tributaries of debris; elimination of waterway damming by debris; removal of undesirable plant species with replacement by desirable species; and the ongoing maintenance of these remediated areas through education, participation of the public, other interested parties.

Over the past 2 years, G.O.A.L. has applied EM•1® Microbial Inoculant in the planting of local riparian buffers in the Levittown, Penn, USA area in order to remediate the local green zones and stream banks. Leaves and other debris have accumulated in drainage ditches causing odors and pest problems. Fertilizers and road runoff from the surrounding area run into these ditches as well. The ditches were so plugged they would often flood. As water sat in the plugged ditch it would go stagnant. This water eventually flowed (trickled really) into Silver Lake, bringing with it any pollutants that had accumulated in the water.

G.O.A.L., along with members and volunteers, has removed over 300 cubic yards of trash and invasive plant species, planted over 850 native trees, removed 1,000 tires from the area, and planted native wildflowers within riparian buffers. Robert Nix, President/CEO of B Organix, Co. Inc, is the acting soil and planting specialist working with G.O.A.L. He has been volunteering his time and donating the EM•1® in these projects. Robert Nix has been using Effective Microorganisms® products for the past 15 years for many uses. Mr. Nix has been a long-time customer of TeraGanix and has worked closely with the company on various applications of EM Technology®, including the G.O.A.L. projects. At a recent watershed management seminar, Dale Frazier announced that they have achieved a 99% success rate for the riparian buffer restoration projects that Robert Nix helped accomplish.

Finding Hardpan

This project first started with taking some soil samples. There was a hardpan about 16 inches below the surface. In the photo on the right, Mr. Nix pulls a chunk of hardpan which would prevent proper drainage around the trees if not cracked through. He found that years of misuse resulted in the lack of soil percolation, low levels of organic matter that needed to be replaced.

Mixing Soils For Tree Planting

Once the soil type was assessed, Mr. Nix determined what would be used in a custom soil mix. The mix included Activated EM•1®, perlite, organic peat, a humate/mychorrizea mix from BioAg called VAM+ Activator (Vesicular Arbuscular Mycorrhizal Fungi) and TM7, and a proprietary mix of wild mushroom soil developed by Mr. Nix's company, B OrgaNix. The need for EM•1® Microbial Inoculant in the soil formulations used for the projects was determined in the first soil inspection made by Robert Nix.

Water Wagon Spraying AEM•1® & Nutrients

Mr. Nix recommended G.O.A.L. continue watering with EM•1® to improve organic breakdown and help control pathogens along with possible toxins from runoff in the area. The improvement of these factors added to EM•1®’s success rate. In order to do the watering, G.O.A.L. made a "water wagon" that had a nutrient solution with Activated EM•1®.

A groups of volunteers came and removed all the trash and invasive species. After that the area was mowed and raked clean. Then holes were dug for the native trees to be planted. The soil mix with Activated EM•1® and EM® Bokashi was added to the holes and trees were planted. The trees were then mulched with additional soil mix.

Trees Planted By GOAL Volunteers

A few days after the planting there were no signs of transplant stress. During the week that followed, there was an incidence of vandalism where an ATV was driven, ripping the soil. Several of the trees were pulled out as well. After a little more help, the soil was fixed and the trees re-planted. Even though this was done, there was still a 99% survival rate of the trees that were planted.

The last step in the project was to plant wildflowers. All the species of wildflowers are native to the area. Some include sunflowers with a variety of bright colors. This fall they bloomed in a brilliant display of colors along the neighborhood. The project has helped clean the area of debris, treat runoff pollutants, and prevent erosion along the drainage ditch. It has also helped beautify the neighborhood.

G.O.A.L., with the help of B OrgaNix, is expanding the use of EM•1® in the community in order to promote environmental education, reduction of food wastes in landfills, natural water quality, and overall environmental health.

Wildflowers In Bloom

New Year’s Resolution for a Healthier 2012 – Everything in Moderation! (Part 3)

2011-11-17T14:01:00.000-08:00

In the final installment of our 3 part series on how to make your New Year’s resolution a commitment you can succeed at and feel good about, we will take our moderation approach even further!

Part 3: Commit to 3 Additional Health Enhancements

Last but not least, in your commitment to a healthier you in 2012, it is a good idea to also incorporate a few small health enhancements to complement your new moderate lifestyle. Again, do not set too lofty a goal, but rather choose three easy-to-implement changes that will fit into your life and make you happier.

First you must identify which aspects of your life need to be addressed. Are you most concerned with your physical health, or would you like to work on emotional, spiritual or intellectual health aspects of your life? You may want to address all of the above! If so, be sure to set realistic goals.

Possible "health enhancements" include:

Introducing a multi-vitamin into your morning routine, which is a good idea no matter how young or old you are
Adding in a calcium supplement (this is especially important for women)
Starting a micro nutrient probiotic cleanse if you have ever suffered from immunity or digestive issues
Scheduling your annual check-up appointment, especially if you’re someone who usually tries to avoid going to the doctor
Switching to a non-toxic, green cleaning agents in the home for those messes that kids and pets cause
Adding recycling and composting kitchen bins
Starting an organic garden
Volunteering once a month to stay active in your local community and help you achieve greater connectedness
Attending a religious/spiritual gathering or lecture once a month
Take a class that will broaden your mind or advance your career
Take one trip abroad this year

The possibilities are endless!

The trick to being successful in your resolution this year is embracing moderation and committing to change. Instead of focusing your transgressions and labeling yourself a failure, think of your life as a long-term quest for moderation. Take pride in being the sort of person who makes thoughtful choices about their health, but also enjoys indulgences in appropriate portions.

Good luck on your journey to moderation!

New Year’s Resolution for a Healthier 2012 – Everything in Moderation! (Part 2)

2011-11-14T15:42:00.000-08:00

In the second installment of our 3 part series on how to make your New Year’s resolution a commitment to moderation we will discuss how to avoid being a slave to repetition.

Part 2: Commit to Mixing it Up

Some routine in life is normal, understandable and at times desirable, but when it comes to physical and mental health, repetition is not your friend. Not only will repeated tasks result in diminishing returns, but they tend to be boring and don’t add joy to your life.

If you have a very repetitive workout, it’s time to mix things up. Diversifying your workout will likely:

Stimulate different muscles leading to better over-all results
Break through a weight loss plateau
Compel you to try harder rather than go through the motions
Alleviate boredom
Reduce the likelihood of giving up and quitting
Stimulate your brain as you learn new things

Start by incorporating one new cardio and one new strength training activity each week. If you are an avid spin class person, try a yoga class. If you are a long distance runner, try biking, rowing or even doing sprint intervals. If you usually work out indoors, try something in the fresh air. To elevate your exercise regimen to the next level, try wearing an infra red ceramic bracelet to help improve your circulation while working out.

If you do not currently exercise, add in a new cardio activity and a new strength training activity at least once this week. Remember – don’t switch into full speed right away. This is all about moderation. Incorporate small changes and once those become too easy, introduce new small changes. Be sure to consult a doctor before starting new physical activities. It is also important that you are fueling your body properly for exertion. You will need both complex carbohydrates and protein in order to fuel your workout. Consider incorporating a probiotic cleanse and a metabolite extract drink like EM-X Gold for maximum metabolic efficiency.

Like physical stagnation, you can also experience mental stagnation. Studies have shown that individuals who do not regularly stimulate their minds are more likely to suffer from dementia later on in life. Several studies show that our neurology benefits from regular engagement – particularly from puzzle solving type activities.
Commit to stimulating your mind several days a week and adding in a new activity a few times a month. The good news is, most of these activities are fun.

Some great brain stimulators and brain-training games include:

Crossword puzzles
Sudoku
Chess
Reading an article or book
Listening to a radio program or book on tape
Taking a class or attending a lecture
Visiting a museum

These lifestyle changes are realistic, manageable and – most importantly – they will enhance your quality of life. The result is a happier, healthier you.

In our next post we will address how moderation can become a personal mantra to be applied across all facets of your life. Stay Tuned!

New Year’s Resolution for a Healthier 2012 – Everything in Moderation! (Part 1)

2011-11-11T08:04:00.000-08:00

Most New Year’s Resolutions fail for a single reason… they are unrealistically rigid. We tend to frame the resolution as an all or nothing endeavor and when success can only be perfection, it is a set up for failure.

The truth is, unless you have a highly compulsive personality, sticking to an all-or-nothing resolution can be incredibly difficult. Inevitability you "fail"… and after several failures, you throw in towel.

With the exception of smoking, there are few health-oriented resolutions that will stick if you approach it with an all-or-nothing attitude. Rather than having an all-or-nothing mentality this year, make your New Year’s resolution a commitment to moderation!

Join us as we embark on a 3 part series on how to create a resolution you can succeed at to achieve a healthier you in 2012.

Part 1: Commit to a Moderate Diet

Most diets and food-related resolutions are highly ambitious to a fault. They demand drastic changes that inevitably trigger emotional responses, including cravings and self sabotage.

Some examples of diet resolutions that are a set-up for failure include:

I’m going to lose 20 pounds by April.

In general, long-term goals are best achieved by breaking them into smaller parts. Too large a goal often overwhelms and leads to a sense of "this is impossible! I might as well eat my weight in Ding Dongs because I’m never going to lose 20 pounds."

I will eat only 1,250 calories a day.

Setting an absolute caloric intake leads to obsessive calorie counting and bizarre eating patterns. Many people end up achieving low calorie mornings / afternoons, only to be overcome with intense evening hunger pangs and the eventual binge.
A substantially lower-than-normal caloric intake can also stall your metabolism, which in turn can lead to weight gain, lethargy and even depression.

I will cut out all sodium from my diet.

Salt is not the enemy. Too much salt is the enemy. Instead of trying to avoid sodium altogether opt for lower sodium alternatives to your favorite foods (soups, crackers, snacks, sauces, etc.)
Salt food to taste using a high quality salt like EM-X Gold Sea Salt, which is more pure than your average table salt, contains additional minerals and packs more flavor so you can use less.

I will only eat cucumbers, raw foods, vegan food, magical radish soup, etc.

Sudden extremes are to be avoided because they almost always generate cravings for forbidden foods.
Any diet that is over dependent on a single food item is to be avoided. It not only lacks nutrient diversity, but it’s boring so you will tire of it quickly.
If you are already a Vegetarian or Vegan, that is fantastic… but if you are trying to become one, it is better to make gradual changes to your diet and slowly progress to that lifestyle.

I will cut out all the sweets, salty and/or fatty foods (that I love).

Again, this will only generate intense cravings for foods that are off-limits.

I will eliminate all fats from my diet.

Not only does this sound impossible, but it is also unhealthy. There are a number of healthy fats that your body needs in order to absorb certain vitamins, as well as maintain a healthy immune system, skin, hair and organs. Rather than vilifying all fats, it is better to focus on limiting saturated fats, with the understanding that you will consume saturated fats on occasion due to their prevalence in our culture and the fact that they can be a tasty occasional treat!

Instead of deprivation, focus on enjoying food, while also limiting unhealthy excess. Make a list of a few specific changes to your diet that allow for mistakes and some gray area.

Some examples of good changes include:

I will cut back on deserts, but allow myself one really incredible desert on Saturday
I will limit my weekday lunches to 350 calories
I will lose 5 pounds by February 1st
I will commit to eating 5 healthy dinners this week
I will not grocery shop when I am hungry
I will start drinking 1% milk
I will always carry a healthy snack in my car/briefcase/purse
I will incorporate more fermented foods and live digestive enzymes into my diet
I will include one healthy vegetable side dish with dinner
I will try a new vegetable or vegetarian recipe every week
I will replace soda with water or sugar free tea 3 times a week
I will only have one glass of wine a night, except for Saturday when I will have two

These sorts of changes are realistic, manageable and – most importantly – allow for transgressions. The result is a happy, healthier life where you can congratulate yourself for meaningful successes rather than berate yourself for failure.

In our next post we will tackle applying moderation to your physical and mental health!
Stay Tuned!

Using Far Infrared Therapy to Combat the Dangers of Electromagnetic Fields

2011-11-04T10:14:00.000-07:00

Nowadays it seems multiple studies are always coming out warning us against the health risks associated with popular foods, common household items, and lifestyle products. Usually these warnings are easy to heed, but what if the danger is so widespread it is simply impossible to avoid? The issue of electromagnetic fields (EMF) are one of those pervasive widespread dangers that are a part of daily life... and virtually impossible to avoid.

EMF Health Risks

Electromagnetic fields are created by the use of power lines, home wiring, airport radar, military technologies, energy grid substations and transformers, computers, appliances, and cell phones. While EMFs cannot be felt physically by most people, they have been purported to cause a multitude of unpleasant and life-altering side effects including miscarriages, birth defects, brain tumors, chronic fatigue, headaches, heart problems, nausea, forgetfulness or distraction, and even cancer. While many of these claims are as of yet unsubstantiated by scientific study, many experts attribute some degree of health risk to living and working in constant exposure to EMFs. Only time will tell what the extent of these health risks is but notable scientists are hypothesizing that serious long-term health concerns are very likely. It is even being speculated that in the future power line radiation from their electromagnetic fields will reach the same consumer danger level as asbestos and radon. The Environmental Protection agency (EPA) and World Health Organization (WHO) have been outspoken about the health risks of EMF radiation. Only time will tell how these features of modern life affect our health and the extend of the damage.

Minimizing the Health Risks with Far Infrared Therapy

Far infrared waves are the long thermal energy waves that we experience everyday as heat from the sun. Far infrared waves can also be used to protect against exposure to EMFs as well as treat a number of illnesses and improve overall health. In fact, far infrared therapy has been shown to:

Stimulate enzyme activities to release water and fat that is being stored in the body
Relieve nervous tension to allow the body to heal
Aid with metabolism and break down cellulite
Detox and cleanse the body- dissolving hidden toxins in the blood
Strengthen the cardiovascular system by increasing cardiac output
Boost the immune system by stimulating white blood cell production
Kill disease-causing bacteria and fungi
Fight off viruses and parasites when the body is compromised
Expand capillaries to increase blood flow and improve circulation

Far infrared therapy can take the form of far infrared saunas and heating pads, far infrared ceramics, far infrared fabrics, and far infrared appliances. EM ceramic jewelry is personal protective jewelry that uses far infrared ceramic material to minimize the effects of EMFs. EM ceramic jewelry is also stylish and fun to wear, providing a much more convenient and discrete way to utilize far infrared therapy and minimize the effects of electromagnetic fields the body. EM ceramic jewelry is the chemical-free alternative to increased blood circulation, remove toxins from muscles and internal organs, lowers blood pressure, and improves overall body function. Couple these pieces with regular exercise, a daily digestive cleanse, and plenty of water for an amazing complete health transformation.

Stinky Pets – Avoiding Pet Odors

2011-10-12T11:55:00.000-07:00

If you are looking for a pet for your home, and want to avoid getting something that will cause household odor, popular pets that are low on odors include chinchillas, rats, hermit crabs, and fish. If you already have a pet at home that is causing unpleasant odors, it’s best to educate yourself on the most effective methods of removing pet odor. The four most common offenders are dogs, cats, ferrets and rabbits, and according to the 2007/2008 U.S Pet Owners Survey , more than 171 million American households have one or more of these pets.

Dogs – Cocker spaniels, shar peis, basset hounds, and bloodhounds have a reputation for being among the smelliest of dogs. While different breeds of dogs can be smellier than others, all dogs, especially outdoor dogs, can develop an unpleasant smell from playing, eating, rolling, getting wet, or relieving themselves.

Get Rid of Dog Odor:
• Bathe with dog shampoo (mix in some EM•1® at about 1oz per quart of shampoo) and conditioner and then dry thoroughly
• Clean out ears (this is especially important for dogs like cocker spaniels that are more prone to ear infections)
• Brush teeth with dog toothpaste
• Groom and trim matted fur
• Switch to natural dog food to avoid preservatives or ingredients that can upset dogs’ stomachs
• Try fatty-acid supplements like fish oil to aid in digestion
•Spray your dog with a mixture of EM•1® and water at a rate of 1 ounce EM•1® per quart of water. Spray till moist.
• Clean carpets and furniture with EM•1® to remove pet odors
If odor still persists consult a veterinarian, as this can signal a skin infection or other serious disease.

Cats– Domestic cats are descendants of desert dwelling cats, so their bodies are well adapted to avoid dehydration- meaning that their urine is highly concentrated. While cats themselves do not smell as strongly as dogs (due to different behaviors and grooming habits), cat urine has a pungent unmistakable odor.

Get Rid of Cat Odor:
• Scoop litter boxes frequently
• Clean litter box out completely at least once a month with EM•1® Microbial Inoculant
•Add 1 cup of EM•1® Bokashi to the fresh litter to control odors
• Clean up accidents on rugs immediately to avoid lingering pet odor. Use a strong solution of EM•1® and water (1 part EM•1® to 10 parts water) and soak the area. Repeat if necessary
• Vacuum up cat hair and dander regularly
• Older cats may have trouble cleaning themselves so wiping them down with a damp facecloth with some EM•1® can help them to get their fur clean

Ferrets– Ferrets belong to the same family as skunks, which means that in the wild they can have a seriously strong odor. Ferrets sold in pet stores almost always have these glands at the rear removed so they cannot spray, but the glands behind their ears remain, and can emit a musky smell.

Get Rid of Ferret Odor:
• Spay/neuter
• Avoid foods with fish oil
• Bathe with ferret shampoo and conditioner and EM•1® at about 1oz per quart of shampoo
• Add 1 cup of EM•1® Bokashi to the fresh litter to control odors
• Clean out cage to remove musk and ammonia odor from urine
• Deodorize with EM•1® to remove pet odor from carpet in the room where the ferret cage is located, as carpets and fabrics can easily absorb smells

Rabbits–Rabbits produce a kind of two types of feces. Their “night feces” are called cecotropes, and are known for a potent smell and sticky texture. Cecotropes can easily become stuck in a rabbit’s fur and cause the rabbit to have the same strong odor.

Get Rid of Rabbit Odor:
• Amend diet (cutting out fruits and vegetables for a day or two) if excrement is runny
• Powder fur with cornflower to remove stuck-on feces
• Wash cage with EM•1®, which uses natural beneficial bacteria to break down fecal matter
• Do not bathe rabbits, as they are severely hydrophobic
• Spray cage with a solution of EM•1® and water (1:32) a couple times per week. Spraying the metal on the cages is good as the antioxidants in the EM•1® also help prevent rust.

Month Supply of All-Natural Multi-Microbial Probiotic Cleanse for Less

2011-10-12T08:35:00.000-07:00

Interest in probiotics (beneficial bacteria) and digestive health has been on the rise for more than a decade. No longer solely tied to the holistic and alternative healthcare markets, probiotic cultures are now also championed by the mainstream medical community. This is because the ties between digestive health and one’s overall well-being are undeniable. Studies have shown that probiotics can stave off infections as well as prevent certain allergies, eczema and even asthma. Your digestive health not only directly affects how your body processes food and absorbs the nutrients required for survival; it also influences your immune system and filters out waste and toxins. If your digestive health is out of whack, you will likely suffer from an assortment of symptoms, with everything from low energy to lackluster skin, and even yeast infections (Candida albicans).

TeraGanix is now offering a new 16-ounce option of Dr Higa’s original, all-natural multi-microbial probiotic – Pro EM•1®. This convenient size provides a one-month supply of the probiotic cleanse at nearly a third of the cost. A bottle can be ordered individually or set to be delivered every other month without incurring any shipping charges.

Pro EM•1® Daily Probiotic Cleanse detoxifies the digestive system, helping to supply bio-available nutrients to the body while also supporting the growth of other beneficial microbes in the digestive system. Pro EM•1® also features the highly sought after Lactobacillus plantarum, which has been accredited with alleviating uncomfortable yeast infections (Candida albicans). Asthma sufferers can especially benefit as the probiotics can quell asthma and allergy symptoms while also staving off oral yeast infections, an issue for higher dose steroid inhaler users. The detoxifying agents also include naturally synthesized vitamins, enzymes, and other antioxidant compounds and the photosynthetic, or phototrophic, microbes that are known to break down various toxic compounds. This prevents toxins and pathogens from contaminating and producing negative effects on the body while boosting the body’s ability to absorb nutrients and antioxidants.

To learn more about how probiotics can bolster your digestive and over-all health, please visit the Digestive Health section of the TeraGanix site.

The What, Why and How of Foliar Feeding

2011-10-07T09:22:00.000-07:00

What: Foliar feeding is highly effective method to deliver extra nutrients to plants through their leaves. Applying nutrients directly to the leaves disperses the nutrients throughout the plant more quickly. It’s often used to supplement plants grown in nutrient deficient soil or as a way to complement standard fertilization of soil.

Why: Research dating back more than 50 years supports using foliar feeding as a way to enhance plant growth and crop yields. Plant Researcher Dr. H.B. Tukey of Michigan State University has championed foliar feeding due to its continued success in his experiments. He found that by applying nutrients directly through the leaves, plants were able to absorb and utilize those nutrients with 95% efficiency verse just 10% efficiency from traditional soil fertilizer feeding.

How: To enjoy the plant nutrient uptake benefits of foliar feeding, first create a nutrient rich solution to spray onto the leaves. Successful farming programs note that the best results happen when spraying anywhere from 1/2 gallon to 5 gallons of the solution per acre per week. To create the solution, mix a 3-5% solution of microbial inoculate such as Activated EM-1 along with a 2-5% nutrient solution. For natural fertilizers, feel free to use the higher density EM-1 solution, but with traditional fertilizers, use a lower potency solution. Load up the solution in a spray rig or sprayer, depending on your preference and crop selection. Spray leaves until they are glistening with the solution, but not so much that they are dripping wet.

When to foliar feed Typically, it’s advised to conduct foliar feeding when it’s humid outside. This helps open up the stomata, the pores of the leaves, so that they are ready to drink up the nutrient-rich solution. Additionally, stomata tend to open up during daylight hours and cooler temperatures; therefore, it’s advised to foliar feed in the evening or early dawn to have a balance between light, temperature and humidity. Stomata also open when conducting photosynthesis, so assessing CO2 levels which indicate photosynthesis can help determine additional stomata opening opportunities. C3 photosynthesis is the most common photosynthesis process and the plants employing this type of photosynthesis open their stoma during light and high humidity; however, individual plants vary and a stoma opens in response to ever changing climate conditions. Research your crops to figure out their stomata opening tendencies. Figure out the best times for you and your crops so that you can fully benefit from foliar feeding.

Foliar feeding successfully distributes nutrients throughout a plant, but should be used in conjunction with a solid soil conditioning program. EM-1 soil accelerator helps nourish your soil to produce healthy plants and can double as a foliar feeding solution. Despite best soil fertilization intentions, some areas of the United States are less prone to having healthy soil. Significant research exists surrounding soil nutrient deficiencies as related to geographic location. If you’re interested in learning more about soil health, read over the renowned research by Columbia University’s Tropical Agriculture and Rural Environment Program for their research regarding soil classification.

Reducing Radiation With Effective Microorganisms®

2011-09-30T11:26:00.000-07:00

In the years since 1982, when EM Technology^® was introduced to the world, a few occasions have come that lend to unusual applications of this technology. These include the 2004 Tsunami in Southeast Asia, the earthquake in Kobe, Hurricane Katrina, and the Chernobyl Nuclear Accident in 1986. The last one may raise some questions as to how or what a microbial product could do. However, those of you who have been following EM Technology^® for a long time and have read Dr. Higa's books know that EM Technology^® has been used in nuclear accidents in the past.

We received lots of emails and phone calls about what can be done and how to do something, most were concerned patrons wondering if people in Japan were OK and wanting to know how EM Technology was being used over there. We are starting to get some information now, most of it coming through people on Facebook as some of us have family over there. Here is the latest information we have.

Earlier this year (2011), a large earthquake hit Northern Japan. The earthquake caused a tsunami as well as a nuclear power plant to melt down in the prefacture of Fukushima. The cesium from the reactor spread out on about a 100 mile radius, with toxic levels within a closer range (maybe 20 miles). Cesium showed up in many farm products including fruits and vegetables and milk, causing the government to ban the distribution of these items. A group studying organic farms produced this video:

Japan is the home of Effective Microorganisms^®. EM•1^® was studied after the Chernobyl Nuclear Accident of 1986 by Institute of Radiobiology of National Academic Sciences of Belarus. EM•1^® Microbial Inoculant was used in phytoremediation projects and demonstrated an increase of radioactive absorption in plants grown in treated areas. However, the EM•1^® demonstrated an increase in chlorophyll, proteins and enzymes that protected the plant from the radioactive substances and thus kept these substances from injuring the plants. The suggested conclusion was that the microbes were able to accelerate the half-life of the radioactive substances in the area.

We all are anxious to see the land recovered and keep watch as more and more videos cover the various projects over there. In our country we can help protect ourselves by applying lots of EM•1® and EM® Bokashi on all of our yards and farms. We will keep you posted as we learn more.

Going Green on Your Golf Turf

2011-09-15T08:48:00.000-07:00

Public officials are becoming increasingly aware that green space within urban vicinities preserve air quality and enhance the community’s overall quality of life. Most people would agree that having a beautiful city park or lush golf green can add to the attractiveness of an area. One of the main reasons golf courses attract visitors is the overall natural beauty of the course; unfortunately, this appealing turf is often created and maintained using harmful chemicals. Shifts in public opinion have recently increased demand for environmentally-friendly turf management, with a particular emphasis on cutting down the use of pesticides and fungicides and reducing ground water pollution.

The City of San Francisco has been using the organic soil amendment EM-1 to achieve an organic, chemical-free, conditioned soil without compromising the beautiful turf that golf aficionados enjoy. Like San Francisco, many public greenways are looking to use more environmentally-friendly organic soil amendments, such as EM-1, to ensure top soil quality without adding harmful chemicals to the ground.

Even recently, at the 2011 PGA Championship at the Atlanta Athletic Club, the importance of environmentally-sound soil conditioning became an issue. Kevin Mangum, Director of Golf Courses and Grounds at the championship host site in Georgia, found a new grass to use for the tournament. In a video on the importance of turf management and the new grass, Mangum discussed that the only foreseeable challenge to the success of his new grass would be if it couldn’t maintain moisture. Fortunately, micronutrient fertilizers like EM-1, employ a beneficial micro-ecology strategized to improve water retention. Water retention is a huge obstacle when maintaining turf and thus, utilizing an organic soil conditioner like EM-1 is essential. Beyond augmenting water retention, EM-1 improves soil structure as well as drainage. All of these qualities work to sustain top golf course turf quality and greenness even despite skyrocketing heat and/or drought. The biggest perk of all comes through the completely organic make-up of EM-1, which will allow for top turf management without tossing more harmful pesticides and fungicides into the environment.

So, whether you’re a pro golfer, course director or just a golf fan, make sure to inquire with your favorite courses as to their use of organic soil treatments on the turf. Let them know that choosing an organic soil conditioner will help prep and treat the soil as chemicals would without the negative environmental side effects. Many courses and cities are joining in the effort to green out the golf course and with EM-1, it’s simple and reliable.

A little more about EM-1: The organic soil amendment product EM-1 emerged in agricultural practices almost three decades ago and has proven to be a top choice for eco-friendly agriculture management. From farming soil, vineyard soil to golf course soil, EM-1 represents a proven way to amend soil healthily. Additionally the EM-1 micronutrient fertilizer has expanded across the soils of six continents with six diverse climates, which proves the functionality and flexibility of the micronutrient fertilizer amendment.

How to Start an Organic Garden

2011-09-06T09:10:00.000-07:00

For a quick how-to on best practices in building and maintaining an organic garden, follow the following six steps.

Step 1: Begin with the End (in mind)

For any long-term idea, backwards planning helps turn that idea into reality. Reverse planning is especially crucial before planting an organic garden, as gardens take time and patience to grow. Putting time in on the front end will result in a luscious, successful garden and remove taking steps backwards later on in the gardening process. Ask yourself, what sort of aesthetic do you want to achieve? Will the plants be decorative or edible? Will you select plants to attract certain desirable creatures such as hummingbirds and butterflies? Can you purchase the plants locally/easily? Do you want to start with organic seeds and sprouts? What plants cooperate with your environment and local weather patterns? Does growing organic matter to you? If it does, look for plants potted with organic soil amendments and conditioners, rather than chemical fertilizers. Also, think about your garden layout. Do you want the garden to be laid out in rows? Organized in squares? Organized by seasonality of the plant? Or, how about some type of pattern? Will the garden be only one-season or will it go through multiple blooms? Learn what plants bloom at different times throughout the growing season in your region. What about winter interest? Lay out a rough blueprint of how you want your garden to look. This will allow you to consider (or talk to a local expert at a organic nursery) which plants fit nicely and which don’t.

Step 2: Choose the garden location

It is important to carefully consider where your garden will be located. Concerns to keep in mind when selecting your garden location are: the amount of sunlight that will reach the area and the ability for water drainage. An added perk to site location for your organic garden is finding a spot within eyesight of your house, for you to enjoy your hard work.
Step 3: Get your hands dirty

You’ve thought about the space for your organic garden, you’ve decided on which plants you want to grow... now it’s time to get in and dig. Rope off the area allotted for your garden and start digging. Turning and prepping the soil is vital to your garden's success. This step is the most time-consuming and physically demanding, so after getting your hands dirty, the rest is a breeze.
Step 4: Nourish your soil

It’s no tricky math equation: healthy soil = healthy growth. Take the time here to really nourish your soil and choose organic, nature-friendly substances that will organically aid your gardens growth. Amend the soil with lots of organic matter to provide soil structure and nutrients. Compost is a trendy and natural way to add nutrients to your soil, but we recommend using EM•1® Bokashi to help neutralize the odors accompanied with composting and to help break down the compost to a more useable level. Another natural way to help promote soil building is by using a microbial inoculent like EM-1, which will enhance the soil quality and help retain moisture. Choosing to incorporate organic soil builders will help green-out your green thumb.
Step 5: Planting

When planting, make sure the root ball is moist and saturated with water. Additionally, it’s a good tip to use a garden pick to break away the root ball encasing so the roots can grow out freely and uninhibitedly. Place the plant in a hole as deep as the root ball, but twice as wide. Fill the hole back up with the soil, pat it back in place and water and some EM•1® (about 1/2 gallon of Activated EM•1® for a 10-gallon tree). You can also add in some nutrients at this time to start the tree off well. (If you live in a desert area, a little trick is to put a 1/2" diameter pvc pipe about three feet down in the ground to water down where the roots go.)
Once your garden is planted in entirety, cover it with at least 3 inches of organic mulch. This helps suppress weeds and maintain moisture.
Step 6: Labeling (optional)
It’s recommended to label each individual plant so you can quickly recall its name and treat it accordingly.

Livestock Control – Eliminating Odors

2011-08-25T15:58:00.000-07:00

Livestock and cattle operations can produce very high levels of ammonia and hydrogen sulfide. Nitrogen in food sources produces ammonia and hydrogen sulfide gases during digestion that is released into the air by livestock as the food passes through excretion. These gases cause an obvious unpleasant odor and can also lead to health problems and physical damage to animals, adversely affecting overall livestock production.

Effects on Livestock Operations

Studies have shown that the most common effect of ammonia in livestock facilities is eye irritation, however, at higher concentrations (more than 20ppm) ammonia can have more serious effects, such as:

• Decreased Birth and Wean Rates
• Reduced Gain Rates – Pig gain rates can be reduced by 12% with ammonia exposure at 50ppm and by 30% with ammonia exposure at 100-150ppm.
• Reduced Feed Efficiency
• Lesions/Abscesses – Tracheal and nasal lesions in pigs have been reported with ammonia exposure at 100-150ppm.
• Respiratory Diseases – Pigs and turkeys have exhibited a reduced ability to clear their lungs of bacteria with ammonia exposure at 50-70ppm.
• Excessive Mucous Production – Turkeys with ammonia exposure as low as 10ppm showed unhealthy mucous production after just 7 weeks.
• Increased Condemnation Rates – Even ammonia exposure at just 10-15ppm can reduce a pig’s resistance to infection, giving way to potentially life-threatening livestock illnesses.

Effects on the Community
• Pungent Odors - Odors from livestock facilities can be a sore subject for rural communities because residents not connected to livestock operations are often bothered by odors that interfere with their daily activities.
• Safety Risks – Hydrogen sulfide is produced when organic matter (such as animal waste) breaks down and is then released into the ground. This hydrogen sulfide can then contaminate drinking water, raising public health concerns.
• Environmental Implications – Global warming and volcanic eruptions are the leading cause of hydrogen sulfide accumulation worldwide, but livestock excretions are also contributing to rising levels of hydrogen sulfide. High levels of hydrogen sulfide can cause sickness and eventual death in humans, animals and plants. In fact, geoscientists have concluded that over 250 million years ago unusually high hydrogen sulfide levels in the oceans and earth’s atmosphere led to the most wide-scale mass extinction in the earth’s history.

EM•1® Microbial Inoculant uses beneficial microbes- creating an antioxidant effect to naturally break down and eliminate ammonia odor as well as decrease hydrogen sulfide putrefaction. In fact, some poultry houses using EM•1® have eliminated ammonia gases entirely (with an average reported ammonia level of 5-6ppm after use). Due to increased production resulting from lower ammonia and hydrogen sulfide levels, livestock operations can generate profits up to three times higher than the cost of using EM•1®. EM•1® microbial inoculant solutions can be used for dairy cattle foot baths, manure treatment, to wash down milking parlors, sprayed on pastures, and even applied directly to the animals themselves to keep skin and hides healthy. To read more, please visit our livestock solutions page.

How to Prevent Salmonella

2011-08-15T15:05:00.000-07:00

If you have been following the news lately, you know that it’s not always easy to practice healthy living . In the last two years incidents of salmonella have been on the rise, prompting recalls of tomatoes, jalapenos, peanut butter, sprouts, lettuce, eggs, and most recently, ground turkey. Last week CBS News revealed that the Cargill ground turkey recall includes 36 million pounds and 32 different varieties of ground turkey (including popular labels like Honeysuckle, HEB brand, Safeway, and Kroger).

If you regularly eat ground turkey you should be aware of the signs of salmonella poisoning and know what precautions you should take to avoid getting sick.

Common Symptoms of Salmonella

• Nausea and vomiting
• Fever and chills
• Diarrhea
• Abdominal Cramps
• Headaches

These salmonella poisoning symptoms usually come on within 72 hours of being infected. In most cases, people suffering from salmonella poisoning are able to recover without needing to seek medical attention, but in rare cases it can spread into the bloodstream or bones, killing patients with weakened immune systems. If any of the above symptoms last longer than 7 days or stools are bloody you should consult a doctor immediately.

Ways to Prevent Salmonella Poisoning:

Refrigerate Meat Properly

Meat should be refrigerated within 2 hours of purchasing it (or 1 hour in the summertime). Where possible, shop for meat at the end of your grocery trip so it’s not sitting in your cart for a prolonged period of time. In the summer car temperatures can reach well over 100 degrees. Once in your car turn on air conditioning to cool down the inside of your car.

Cook Food Thoroughly

When cooking make sure you know what internal temperature is safe for the egg or meat dish you are cooking and then use a meat thermometer to determine when it’s done. Do not just rely on color, as this can lead to unsafe meat being served and consumed.

Wash Hands, Work Surfaces, and Utensils

After handling raw meat or eggs be sure to wash your hands, work surfaces, and utensils with soap and hot water. Additionally, disinfect work surfaces with a bleach solution where possible.

Reheat Food Thoroughly

When reheating food make sure that the internal temperature reaches the safe cooking temperature before consuming the leftover food.

Clean Dish Cloths and Sponges Regularly

Dish cloths and sponges can be a breeding ground for salmonella and other dangerous forms of bacteria. Make sure that dish clothes are washed regularly and sponges are thrown out when they start to get old.

Thaw Meat Safely

When thawing meat always thaw it in the fridge, not on a countertop. Leaving meat at room temperature is very dangerous. When you move the meat from the freezer to the fridge to thaw make sure you put it in a bowl so that a leak doesn’t contaminate other items in the fridge- especially foods that will be eaten raw, like vegetables.

For more tips on healthy living, including probiotics for digestive and immune system health, tips for combating chemicals sensitivities, and maintaining a home free of harmful chemicals, visit Teraganix online.

Green Cleaning - Minimizing Toxic Chemicals in the Home

2011-08-12T15:51:00.000-07:00

Having a clean home can reduce the spread of disease (especially if you have young children), as well as make the living environment more pleasant for your family and your guests, but using harsh chemicals cane be just as dangerous as not cleaning the dirt and germs that find their way into your house. Therefore, a balance must be reached between having a clean house and also reducing the presence of harmful toxins in your home. One way to figure out whether or not your home cleanliness is balanced is to check for odors. Foul odors are traditionally associated with a dirty space in your home, but can also result when household cleaners that are high in chemicals are overused.

To properly eliminate odors without chemicals, dirty or soiled areas should be properly cleaned with natural products to avoid merely covering one odor with another, more toxic, odor. Many people just assume that the cleaners that they have in their houses are safe for use around pets and children, particularly if the cleaners are manufactured by well-known brands. However, studies from the Florida Department of Environmental Protection have shown that the average American home contains 63 individual synthetic chemical products, which equals about 10 gallons of harmful chemicals. Fortunately, with the right green cleaning products it is simple to avoid these harsh chemicals while still enjoying a clean environment.

What is Green Cleaning?

Green cleaning refers to a method of cleaning that uses environmentally friendly ingredients to maintain human health and environmental quality by forgoing strong toxic chemicals in favor of safer natural ingredients.

One popular green cleaning product is Dr. Higa’s Activated EM•1®. If you have pets you know how strong pet odors can be on carpets and furniture where pets have urinated. EM•1® can eliminate even the strongest pet odors.

Benefits of Green Cleaning

Traditional cleaning products are full of toxic chemicals that can have a serious impact on your family’s health over time. Cleaning with green products has been proven to lessen the incidents of:

• Respiratory irritations or burns
• Irritation of the skin, nose, or eyes
• Allergies
• Headaches and nausea

Green cleaning is clearly safer for your family, but it has also been proven to have a positive environmental impact as well. Green cleaning releases fewer toxins; so, over a large scale, green cleaning can improve air quality and avoid damage to the earth’s atmosphere. Therefore, when you use green products, you can be confident that you’re not jeopardizing the quality of life for future generations.
Additionally, most green cleaning products perform as well as, if not better than, traditional cleaning products so you won’t have to sacrifice effectiveness for safety.

Green Cleaning Made Simple

Today, it’s easier than ever to go green when you clean. You can use one of the many green cleaning products available on the market or make one yourself. Making a green cleaner is simple! Here’s a recipe for a simple multi-purpose cleaning agent:

• 1 Spray bottle
• 2 cups Distilled water
• ½ tsp. Baking soda
• 1 tsp. Borax
• ½ tsp. Liquid castile soap
• 2 tbsp. White vinegar
• 20 drops Tea tree essential oil
• ½ cup EM-1 Microbial Solution

When you decide to switch to green cleaning, be sure to dispose of your old cleaning products properly. It is not safe to pour these toxic cleaning products down the drain or dispose of them in a landfill. Instead, go online and look for safe places around your city or town to dispose of these toxins. These places sometimes include drop off centers in health food stores, supermarkets, or government buildings. This ensures the toxins will not make their way into your community’s ground water.

If you make your own a green cleaners for the home feel free to share additional recipes below!

The Top Six Tips for Simple, Healthy Living

2011-07-26T15:55:00.000-07:00

Living a healthy life is much easier than most people assume and the rewards greatly outweigh the effort. By taking the necessary steps towards healthy living, you can improve the quality of your life and reduce your risk of heart disease, cancer, stroke and other serious diseases.

The top six easy tips for living a healthy lifestyle include:

1. Stay active
Exercise on a daily basis, even if you only have time for 15 or 20 minutes. Your body needs to move and our time consuming jobs often leave us sedentary for most of the day. You don’t need to complete the Iron Man to be healthy! The key to sticking with exercise is making it enjoyable. Find an activity that fits your personality. Join a league, wake up early and go on a brisk walk, or plan an evening workout with friends, family or even your pet. Whatever form of exercise, make sure you raise your heart rate intermittently, which will keep your heart healthy. Regular exercise will also strengthen your muscles and bones and will help protect your body against disease.

2. Focus on a healthy diet
With all of the bad choices available to us in modern society, keeping a healthy diet is probably the most challenging piece of good health. The key is including a variety of fruits and veggies, and focusing on “whole” or unprocessed foods. Limit foods and drinks that are high in calories, sugar, salt and fat. Limit alcohol consumption, which often results in extra calorie intake, as well as harm to the liver. A balanced diet is the key to receiving the vitamins and minerals that your body needs. A healthy diet will strengthen your immune system and will help you control your blood pressure and cholesterol.

3. Embrace probiotics
Probiotics introduce beneficial bacteria and enzymes to your digestive track, improving digestive as well as strengthening the immune system. A probiotic cleanse is a great way to detoxify the body, while also boosting the body’s ability to absorb nutrients and antioxidants.

4. Keep Hydrated
About 60% of our body weight is made up of water. Water plays a vital role in nearly every bodily function. It constantly rejuvenates our cells and it is especially important to drink water in morning to help the cells replace the oxygen they lost the night before. Water is also essential for proper digestion and nutrient absorption. It helps remove toxins from the body and regulates our body’s temperature. A general rule is to drink half your body weight in ounces of water every day to provide your body with its minimum water replacement requirements. Tap water can carry many impurities so it is best to incorporate some type of purification or water conditioning system. One of the most effective and natural water filtration systems is ion water purification using far infrared ceramics.

5. Protect yourself
Protect yourself, your skin and your body from harm. Wear sunscreen and a hat to protect you from the powerful sun. Insect repellent is a great way to protect you from bugs and avoid contracting an insect spread virus. Wash your hands regularly to stop the spread of germs. Avoid smoking and being around second hand smoke, which can both cause major harm to your body and lungs. Know what to do in an emergency and have an emergency kit nearby.

6. Manage stress
In modern society, being stress-free ironically takes a bit of work, but managing stress can greatly improve your quality of life, and reduce many stubborn health issues. Balance work, home and play by deciding on priorities and making enough time for each aspect of your life. Surround yourself with a strong support system that can help you stay sane when things go awry. Ask for assistance when you need it and stay positive. Try to focus on solutions instead of dwelling on problems. Take time to relax and make sure to get enough sleep, about seven to nine hours, each night. If you still find yourself struggling with stress, consider incorporating yoga, mediation and massage into your life.

Maintaining Your Lawn during a Drought

2011-07-20T14:43:00.000-07:00

More than 13 states are currently experiencing severe drought in the southern part of the US. Here in Texas, we are experiencing the third worse drought ever on record. With state-wide burn bans, lakes at record lows, and the Department of Agriculture declaring our state a federal disaster area, it easy to understand why people are a bit nervous about their water usage. It feels wrong to waste water on your lawn when farmers are in dire straits, cattlemen are forced to sell off livestock, and our lakes are bone dry.

Thankfully, there are a number of simple strategies you can employ to keep your lawn healthy (and even green!) this summer, without using copious amount of water or contributing to the drought.

When you water, water deep.

Watering your lawn a little bit everyday might seem like the right thing to do but it’s really just wasteful and ineffective. The water evaporates away too quickly, without really quenching your lawn's thirst. A better strategy is to give your lawn lots of water at once. This tactic allows the water to seep deeper into the ground. Water that lies deep within the soil is less likely to evaporate and also encourages grass to grow deeper roots, making your lawn heartier and more effective at absorbing the water it needs. If you soak your lawn, you can also space out your waterings to be more infrequent. This is a tactic that you should employ with your lawn even when there is no drought. It’s just an all-round good practice.

Avoid fertilizers, but Improve Soil Quality

Avoid lawn fertilizers during droughts as they encourage leaf and shoot growth which will drastically increase the amount of water your lawn will require to remain healthy. It is best to stop fertilizer treatments in mid to late spring and allow your lawn to transition into natural dormancy (i.e. slower growth in summer) in order to maintain its green hue with less water. Rather than fertilizer, add a microbial inoculant like EM·1^® to the soil whenever you water. This will support the growth of beneficial organisms in the soil, improve the soil structure, drainage, and root water retention. A healthy micro-environment will also guard the lawn against disease during the extreme heat which can lower your lawn's natural defenses.

Make Sure Your Mower is Drought Ready

Sharpen your lawn mower blade, as a dull blade will shred the grass and shredded grass requires up to 60% more water to remain healthy. Likewise, raise the cutting height of your lawn mower. By allowing the grass to grow slightly higher, you are encouraging deeper root growth. As mentioned earlier, this will make your lawn resilient and more efficient at absorbing and retaining water and moisture. Finally, cut your lawn less frequently. Space out your trims to once a month or more.

Gather Water Naturally

Here in Texas rain barrels have always been popular, but with the recent green movement, they can also be attractive additions to your yard. Simply stand an empty barrel (or two or three) in your yard and let the rain clouds do the rest. Be sure to choose a spot that allows for maximum collection. For example, under a rooftop drainage system is ideal. Take advantage of rain from the roof and set barrels underneath gutter spouts to collect the rain water. This water can be used to water plants instead of using tap water.

Controlling Compost Odors

2011-07-11T12:36:00.000-07:00

Many people understand the general process and benefits of composting, yet many choose not to pursue composting due to the associated odors. To the surprise of compost naysayers, healthy compost actually has no foul odor whatsoever. The rotting or ammonia smell people often associate with compost actually comes from incorrect composting techniques. To ensure your spouse, landlord, or HOA doesn’t give you the boot for being too stinky, you should follow the simple composting practices outlined below.

Why Does My Compost Smell?

Unhealthy compost odor can easily be resolved. The most important thing is identifying the underlying source of the smell. Once this is determined, there is generally a simple fix.

Possible Sources of the Smell…

Imbalanced Nitrogen/Carbon Ratio
Most odor issues are due to an unhealthy ratio of nitrogen to carbon – both essential elements to the composting process. Carbon, also referred to as brown material, is the dead and dry parts of your compost including paper, peat moss, sawdust, or dead leaves. Nitrogen is often referred to as the green material in your compost and includes things like food scraps and grass clippings. The ideal ratio is 25-30 parts carbon to 1 part nitrogen. Major shifts in this ratio will lead to unpleasant smells. When there is an over-abundance of nitrogen or green parts in the mix, the compost will have an ammonia or sewage-like smell. The remedy is adding brown materials like leaves, newspaper and straw to re-establish the ratio. Unfortunately, this can take time, patience and perhaps more space than is available as the compost pile grows in size with more green material. In many cases a simpler solution is adding healthy microbes and enzymes to help in the decomposition process. EM•1® compost accelerant, for example, not only prevents anaerobic, odor-causing decay by producing stable organic matter particles (humus), but it also speeds up the whole compost process.

Over-Compaction
The microbes that break down your compost require a healthy level of oxygen. Without this oxygen, your compost may become over-compacted leading to excess hydrogen sulfide and a smell of rotten eggs.
The remedy for over-compacted, un-oxygenated compost is aerating the heap. This requires the simple but messy task of churning the compost on a regular basis. It’s also a good idea to add ‘fluffy’ material, like dry leaves or grass in order to achieve the right density.

Too Much Moisture
While healthy compost requires a great deal of moisture, too much can definitely turn into a smelly problem. If your compost is in a closed container, make holes in the container so some of the moisture can be released and your compost can function properly.

Proper Compost Materials

One important thing to remember is that not everything belongs in the compost bin. These things can invite unwanted creatures and smells.
We recommend that you don’t add:

Meat
Bones
Fish
Dairy products
Grease or oil

But please DO add:

Comfrey
Garden waste
Lawn clippings
Kitchen waste (including tea bags, coffee grounds, cooked pasta, fruit and vegetable trimmings.)
Manure
Seaweed
Woody prunings
Weeds
Bracken
Straw
Newspaper and cardboard
A high quality Microbial Inoculant

While all of these tips are useful and work, some people still find the compost process to be time consuming and, despite best efforts, still smelly. Not to worry! There is another alternative…

The Most Effective Compost Alternative: The Bokashi Method

If you’re searching for a simpler solution, the Bokashi Compost Method is the best alternative to traditional composting currently available. The Bokashi Method is not only easier than composting, but because it relies on the fermentation process rather than decomposition, it is also quicker, requires less churning, and is virtually odorless, making it ideal for urban dwellers.

The Bokashi Method requires 3 simple steps:

Allow 1-2 weeks to fill compost bin
Leave compost in bin to ferment for 2 weeks adding EM•1® Bokashi every few days
Bury the material underground for 2 weeks or simply add it to your traditional compost pile

This method eliminates all odors and takes place in less than a month!

Controlling the smell of your compost is easier than you think. And with the right knowledge, composting is one of the easiest and most beneficial things you can do.

Hydroponics

2011-06-29T14:40:00.000-07:00

Hydroponics is a Latin phrase meaning “working water.” Today, this is the process of growing plants without the use of soil. Hydroponics uses mineral nutrient solutions in water. Hydroponics has been proven as a successful way to grow healthy, stable, and high-yielding plants. When fruits and vegetables are grown hydroponically, the plants are nutrient-rich and tasty.

The two techniques for growing by hydroponics are medium culture and solution culture. Medium cultures use a solid medium such as sand or gravel to facilitate growth. Solution culture does not use these elements, and simply uses the nutrient solution.

How do Hydroponic Plants grow?

Plants grown hydroponically grow so well because they are getting all the nutrients they need in an ideally balanced environment without soil, which forces plants’ roots to search for their necessities. This means the plant can spend less effort trying to ingest food and more effort on vegetative growth and reproduction.

Hydroponic plants may grow completely in liquid or use small amounts of gravel, dirt or sand. Your hydroponics system can be in a mass fashion with many fertilizers, different mediums and automation or as simple as a single plant growing in a hand-watered bucket.

Creating a Positive Environment for your Plant

When growing hydroponically, it is crucial to remember that the nutrients and minerals soil-plants receive naturally, your plant relies on you to receive. A healthy hydroponics environment must have water, aeration, nutrients and physical plant support.

One thing you can do to ensure a healthy environment when using foliar feeding for hydroponic plants is to use a small amount of EM-1 Microbial Inoculant . While this does not substitute for nutrient solutions, it does maintain recommended dilution ratios for your plant. It is also a good idea to condition the water you are feeding your plants with EM-X Ceramics. Specialized hydroponic fertilizers can be used to ensure your plant grows as healthy as possible.

Part of hosting a positive environment for your hydroponic plants also means maintaining an ideal pH level. Similar to soil plants, very high or very low pH levels in hydroponic systems disable plants from absorbing the nutrients they need. Fortunately, like many other aspects of hydroponic systems, pH levels are much easier to monitor, test, and control than soil plants.

What are the Benefits of Growing Hydroponically?

Because of the absence of dirt, nutrients are more accessible and create greater yields. The absence of dirt also means less space is required.

Plants in hydroponic systems are maintained in a controlled environment. Should the plant show mineral or nutrient deficiencies, the concentrations of these ingredients applied in water can be easily altered. Additionally, soil plants are frequently subjected to soil-born pesticides, diseases, weeds, and pesticide use. These risks are almost completely eliminated with hydroponics.

There are a number of methods and mediums used to create hydroponic plants. It has become very easy and affordable to experiment with hydroponics at any level. So try it out and start seeing higher yields soon!

Fermentation: The Nutritional Benefits

2011-06-15T08:50:00.000-07:00

Humans have been fermenting their food and drink since the beginning of time. Jars containing wine dating back 7,000 years in present Iran, leavened bread in ancient Egypt, fermented milk in Ancient Babylon; the list goes on and on. We can’t know if these people understood the health benefits of consuming fermented food and drink, but it’s pretty obvious they liked it.

Fermentation Today
Contemporary humans have taken a liking to it as well. Beer, wine, ketchup, Tabasco, chocolate, cheeses and many other favorites are all based in traditional fermentation processes. Unfortunately, commercial interests are causing the foods most accessible to us to be fermented in manners that lower the nutritional benefits of fermentation. Pickles, onions and sauerkraut are being fermented in acidic vinegar as opposed to natural salt; bread is leavened with commercial yeast as opposed to wild yeast; and wine, beer, yogurt, milk and cheeses are heavily pasteurized in high heats. Contrary to lacto-fermented processes, all these methods kill of the good bacteria and enzymes that fermentation naturally provides.

What’s So Great About Fermentation?
The fermentation process involves the breakdown of carbohydrates and proteins by microgranisms such as bacteria and yeast. This creates great advantages in health and food preparation.

Food Preservation
The primary goal of fermentation in ancient times which holds functionality today is food preservation. Fermented food lasts weeks and sometimes months longer than fresh food. Consider how much longer a pickle stays fresh than a cucumber.

Digestion and Immunity
By fermenting food and allowing it to break down on its own, it naturally processes our food even before we eat it. Traditionally fermented foods are also rich in enzymes which allow food to be digested easier. Fermenting food also allows your body to take in and process the nutrients and vitamins in your food.

Taste
Naturally fermenting food creates full, fresh and rich tastes in food and drinks.

Easy and Inexpensive
Fermenting your own foods and using them in healthy and tasty recipes is easy. With a few products, like E-1 Microbial Inoculant, fermenting your own food was never so easy or cheap!