Go into a grocery store and be prepared to see more organic foods than ever before. Have you ever wondered what the difference is between non-organic and organic food? It seems like it should be a simple answer but it is not. Hundreds of organizations pass out certifications that say that products are organic and each have different guidelines.In the United States, farmers must meet the U.S Department of Agriculture's definition of organic through the National Organic Program. In a nutshell, it says that in raising crops and animals that natural substances are allowed and synthetic substances are not.
Instead of using chemical based fertilizers, organic farming uses traditional methods of plowing the soil to break down soil compaction. Soil compaction can keep water and air from getting to the roots. Chemical based fertilizers do the same thing but is more harmful to the environment.
Organic farmers also rotate crops to prevent crop diseases and pests from building up in the soil. Organic farming controls weeds through physical and mechanical methods. The lack of chemicals eliminates the chance that dangerous substances will run into nearby streams or into the water table. Most importantly, you will not be ingesting foods that could have chemicals in them.
Livestock raised organically are fed only organic feed plus vitamins and minerals. Growth hormones and antibiotics are banned in organic food products. Vaccines are allowed though. Organically raised animals must be "free range" which means they have access to the outdoors including pastures. Non-organically raised livestock can be raised in factory settings with limited space. That can cause problems with waste that has to be removed using chemicals.
Note: There is still considerable argument over whether or not organic food is actually more nutritious than non-organic food. The National Organic Program does not claim that organic food is safer or more nutritious. It merely points out which food has achieved the organic certification.
