What Does 'Organic' Mean?

The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) has national standards for the use of the word 'organic'. To be certified as USDA organic, farmers are required to produce foods (fruits, vegetables, grains, dairy & meat) without the use of antibiotics, hormones, pesticides, irradiation, or bioengineering; all of which can have adverse effects on the human body.

One of the prime advantages of organic food is that it is pure food...nothing more, nothing less. At this time, there is no definitive research that makes the claim that organic foods are richer in vitamins and minerals. However, some studies have shown organic foods to have a higher nutritional value. Some people believe that pesticides can permeate certain fruits and vegetables, giving them a chemical taste. So, you may find that organic food actually tastes better.

Keep in mind that the words 'natural' and 'organic' are not interchangeable. Only food labeled 'organic' designate that the product meets the USDA organic standards. If you're interested in making the switch over to organic foods, it can be done gradually by picking up one or two new organic items each time you shop.