Organic Food

Organic food is becoming more and more popular, as people look for ways to live a healthier, pesticide-free, environmentally friendly, and sustainable lifestyle.

When the organic food movement began, organic farms were relatively small operations, and their products were available mostly in local markets. Since the early 1990's, the interest in organic food has grown at a rate of 20% per year. Today, organic food is available in most markets and grocery stores, and makes up about 3% of food sales in the U.S.

What does "Organic" mean?

The production standards for organic certification for crops require that the farmers use no pesticides, artificial fertilizer, human or other waste, and that they are not processed using ionizing radiation or other additives. Animals grown for food must be reared without the routine use of growth hormone or antibiotics. Neither plants nor animals can be genetically modified.

Why should I buy organic foods?

While this is ultimately a personal decision, here are some reasons why people choose organic foods: