Why South Africans are ditching supplements for organic food
Have you ever wondered why our grandparents often lived well into their 100s without a cabinet full of expensive supplements? On a recent feature on Radio 702, host Relebogile Mabotja explored the booming demand for organic products in South Africa.
March 26, 2026
She was joined by two industry experts: Warren Hickinbotham, CEO of Trade Fairs & Promotions (co-founder of the Organic & Natural Products Expo Africa), and Gary Jackson, the founder of Jackson’s Real Food Market.
Is modern food making us sick?
According to Gary Jackson, the rise in chronic fatigue and “brain fog” isn’t a coincidence. “People are tired of being tired,” he explains. With many modern diets reliant on pesticides and hormones, our immune systems are under constant pressure.
The most effective way to reclaim your health? Control what you eat. By choosing food with fewer ingredients and avoiding post-harvest pesticides, you can significantly improve your gut health and mental clarity.
3 Myths about organic food in South Africa
Many South Africans avoid the organic aisle due to common misconceptions. Here is what the experts had to say:
- It’s not always more expensive: In South Africa, many local farmers price their organic produce competitively to gain market share.
- Nutrient density saves money: One farm-fresh egg is often more satiating than three supermarket eggs because it is packed with more nutrients.
- Soil quality matters: Real health starts in the soil. Clean soil means clean food, which is why knowing your farmer is a game-changer.
Pro-tips for a natural lifestyle
If you want to move away from processed products, start with these simple steps:
- Prioritise quality fats: Use uncooked olive oil on salads and steamed vegetables.
- Eat your greens: Focus on leafy green vegetables to support your “second brain”—the gut.
- Attend the expo: Discover indigenous South African products like Baobab, Moringa, and Sceletium.
- Visit the Organic & Natural Products Expo Africa
Ready to dive deeper? Mark your calendars for these upcoming events:
- Cape Town: 17–19 April at the CTICC.
- Johannesburg: 7–9 August at the Sandton Convention Centre.
Whether you’re shopping at Jackson’s Real Food Market in Bryanston or browsing the stalls in Sandton, it’s time to get back to basics.
About the Organic & Natural Products Expo Africa
The Organic & Natural Products Expo is back in 2026 with two exciting events confirmed for Cape Town and Johannesburg, continuing the growth of South Africa’s leading platform for health, sustainability and conscious living.
Cape Town: 17–19 April 2026 | Cape Town International Convention Centre (CTICC)
Johannesburg: 7–9 August 2026 | Sandton Convention Centre (SCC)
Contact Organic & Natural Products Expo:
Warren Hickinbotham
https://www.organicandnaturalportal.com/
Click here to purchase your tickets.