What is Organic?

Organic refers to food and other items which are grown and produced with fewer chemicals and free from artificial additives or genetically modified organisms. Organic refers to the natural processes of production and manufacturing rather than synthetic or artificial chemical processes. Organic items are healthier and more nutritious than conventional products.

Organic Agriculture

Organic agriculture is a system of farming which relies on natural processes of crop rotation, soil fertility and pest control and does not use synthetic fertilizers, genetically modified organisms or other chemical inputs. Organic farmers use traditional methods of crop rotation and soil fertility to improve the nutritional quality of the soil and reduce erosion. Organic farmers focus on the natural health of the soil and the environment, not on trying to maximize yield and profit at the expense of the environment. Organic farmers also use organic pest control methods and natural methods of controlling weeds and pests instead of using chemical insecticides and herbicides.

Organic Animal Husbandry

Organic animal husbandry is the practice of raising farm animals using methods which limit the use of antibiotics, growth hormones and other synthetic chemicals, and emphasizes animal welfare. Organic animal farming limits the use of antibiotics, provides the animals with adequate housing, access to pasture and outdoor areas, and access to a quality diet which does not contain any animal byproducts or non-organically produced feed. Organic animal husbandry also focuses on the humane treatment of the animals and their humane slaughter, if needed.

Organic food has higher levels of nutrients and is grown without chemicals or genetically modified organisms, making it a healthier option than conventionally produced food. Organic farming improves the health of the soil and the environment and organic animal husbandry focuses on the humane treatment of the animals. Organic items are becoming increasingly popular as more and more people become aware of the health and environmental benefits of choosing organic.