Organic food is produced according to legally regulated standards. For crops, it means they were grown without the use of conventional pesticides, artificial fertilizers or sewage sludge, and that they were processed without ionizing radiation or food additives. For animals, it means they were reared without the routine use of antibiotics and without the use of growth hormones. Also, at all levels, organic food is produced without the use of genetically modified organisms.Historically, organic farms have been small family-run farms – which is why organic food was once only available in small stores or farmers' markets. Now, organic foods are becoming much more widely available because organic food sales within the US have enjoyed 17 to 20 percent growth for the past few years while sales of conventional food – while still larger in size – have grown at only about 2 to 3 percent a year. This large growth is predicted to continue, and many companies are jumping into the market.
There is evidence that organic farms are more sustainable and environmentally sound, among other benefits. These claims, however, are subject to dispute and are not settled among scientists. One vocal critic in particular, Anthony Trewavas, has written detailed critiques of organic agriculture.
Types of organic food
Fresh foodFresh food is seasonal and perishable. Vegetables and fruits are the most available type of organic, fresh food, and are closely associated with organic farming. They are often purchased directly from growers, at farmers' markets, from on-farm stands, supermarkets, through specialty food stores, and through community-supported agriculture (CSA) projects. Unprocessed animal products like organic meat, eggs, dairy, are less commonly available in their purely "fresh" form.
Chips, cookies, and other snacks are an example of processed food.
Processed foodProcessed food accounts for most of the items in a supermarket. Often, within the same store, both organic and conventional versions of products are available, and the price of the organic version is usually higher. Most processed organic food comes from large food conglomerates producing and marketing products like canned goods, frozen vegetables, prepared dishes and other convenience foods.
Processed organic food usually contains only (or at least a specified percentage of) organic ingredients and no artificial food additives, and is often processed with fewer artificial methods, materials and conditions (e.g.: no chemical ripening, no food irradiation).
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