ORGANIC
What is Organically Grown food?
Put simply, it is food grown without the use of synthetic fertilizers, pesticides, fungicides or herbicides and processed without such procedures as irradiation (exposes food to byproducts of the nuclear power to extend shelf life) and genetic engineering (a variety of methods used to genetically modify organisms or influence their growth and development by means that are not possible under natural conditions or processes).
But that is just the beginning. Organic farming encompasses an entire philosophy that nurtures—rather than depletes—the soil in which crops grow. This philosophy takes into account natural rhythms and cycles. Organic farmers use nature’s own solutions to overcome problems. In doing so, they reduce chemical contamination of the environment and contribute to the health of the land now and for future generations.
Why Organic?
1. Nutrient density. Organic farmers nourish the soil that feeds our food. Research shows that organically-produced foods are higher in antioxidants and other nutrients than their conventional counterparts.
2. No persistent pesticides or synthetic fertilizers.Designed by intent to kill living organisms, persistent pesticides can be harmful to wildlife and human health, especially as they contaminate our food, air and water or accumulate in our cells. Synthetic fertilizers require large quantities of fossil fuels to produce, and contribute to soil degradation and ocean dead zones.
3. No synthetic growth or breeding hormones. Avoiding synthetic hormones (which are frequently given to conventional dairy and meat animals to alter reproductive cycles and speed up growth) means less stress for animals, and reduced human exposure to endocrine-disrupting chemicals.
4. No antibiotics. Overuse of antibiotics in farm animals leads to the development of dangerous antibiotic-resistant infections. Organic farmers instead rely on natural measures to promote and maintain animal health.
5. No GMOs. Genetically engineered crops are a relatively recent technology with potentially devastating impacts on ecosystems and human and animal health. Organic regulations forbid the use of genetically engineered seeds or animals (including clones).
6. Animal care. Organic philosophy means raising animals in harmony with nature. Quality animal care keeps animals healthy and productive, naturally.