What does "organic" mean?
To put it simply, organic is a form of non-chemical farming and food processing. Organic farmers don't use chemicals, genetically engineered seeds, hormones, or antibiotics in their farming practices. So, in general organic food is better for the environment and allows the public to avoid chemicals, hormones, and antibiotics in their food. A more complex legal definition follows.
"Organic" is a nationally (and internationally) recognized term for which producers must seek certification. Organic farming and production provides a suitable ecological alternative to conventional systems. Beginning in October 2002, the National Organic Program (NOP) at the USDA will require that "Certified Organic" producers be approved by a USDA-accredited agent. These producers must hold to certain ecological standards that exclude the use of pesticides, fertilizers, growth hormones, and antibiotics. The standards laid out in the NOP's final ruling require that organic producers:
- Avoid use any prohibited material (including synthetic pesticides, growth hormones, etc.) for three years prior to harvest
- Maintain or improve the soil and crops through methods like crop rotations, cover crops and composting
- Use organic seeds, seedlings and planting stock
- Implement a crop rotation practice using sod, cover crops, green manure crops and catch crops
- Control weeds, pests, and diseases through crop rotation, soil and nutrient management, and breeding techniques
- Raise animals on organic pasture under humane conditions and refrain from the use of synthetic growth hormones or antibiotics
- Refrain from the use or production of Genetically Modified Organisms, etc.
[summarized from The National Organic Program Standards]
Many individuals have switched to organically produced foods and products for a variety of compelling reasons. Besides improving soil health, biodiversity and the environment in general, organic food provides an alternative for those who want to avoid potentially hazardous hormones, pesticide residues, and anti-biotics in their food.
Organic Foods References
| 
