What Does Organic Really Mean?

The USDA dictates that organic foods must be produced by farmers who "emphasize the use of renewable resources and the conservation of soil and water to enhance the environmental quality for future generations."

In magazines ranging from Women's Health to Vegetarian Times, I've read articles giving guidelines as to what organic items are worth the extra cost and which aren't. I even posted one such list earlier this week. While I think these lists are a great starting point for anyone looking to venture into the wide world of organic eating, reading this "official" definition of "organic" it got me to thinking of all the reasons one ought to opt for organic food.

Beyond what is healthy for our bodies, organic food is healthy for our planet. Pretty basic, I know ... but sometimes just putting these basic assumptions in writing helps to solidify them in my way of living.

What "organic" means varies by product. Meat, poultry, egg and dairy products must be from animals that aren't given synthetic hormones or antibiotics. The animals must be fed an organic diet and allowed to roam freely (how "freely" is a topic up for debate right now).

Organic produce may not be grown using conventional pesticides, synthetic fertilizers or sewer sludge (I guess that means conventional produce DOES use sewer sludge?? barf). Farmers can't use bioengineered crops or treat their crops with ionizing radiation. And the companies that handle and process the products on the way to market must also adhere to strict guidelines.