What is Organic?

“Organic” is an agricultural production system that is in greater harmony with nature. Organic produce products (fruits and vegetables) are grown without the use of products containing harmful chemicals, petroleum based fertilizers, genetic modification or irradiation. Organic farms treat plants, soil and animals with natural products instead of synthetic chemicals and drugs.

Why Eat Organic?

  • Eating organic foods helps keep dangerous chemicals and pesticides out of your body
  • You can help protect the environment – organic farmers don’t use harmful chemical fertilizers
  • Organic fields are safer for farm workers, wildlife, and nearby homes, schools and businesses
  • Delicious and nutritious – organic fruits and vegetables taste better!

 

 

The National Organic Standards Board Definition of "Organic"

"Organic agriculture is an ecological production management system that promotes and enhances biodiversity, biological cycles and soil biological activity. It is based on minimal use of off-farm inputs and on management practices that restore, maintain and enhance ecological harmony.

‘Organic’ is a labeling term that denotes products produced under the authority of the Organic Foods Production Act. The principal guidelines for organic production are to use materials and practices that enhance the ecological balance of natural systems and that integrate the parts of the farming system into an ecological whole.

Organic agriculture practices cannot ensure that products are completely free of residues; however, methods are used to minimize pollution from air, soil and water.

Organic food handlers, processors and retailers adhere to standards that maintain the integrity of organic agricultural products. The primary goal of organic agriculture is to optimize the health and productivity of interdependent communities of soil life, plants, animals and people."

“Certified Organic” not only means that organic farmers and distributors must keep plants and produce healthy, they must also comply with regulations from the US Department of Agriculture (USDA), including annual on-site visit from an inspector.