Organic food is grown without the use of synthetic pesticides, herbicides, or fertilizers. It is also not genetically modified. Many people choose to purchase organic food in an effort to avoid these potential health risks.
The USDA defines organic food as follows: “Organic food is produced by farmers who emphasize the use of renewable resources and the conservation of soil and water to enhance environmental quality for future generations. Organic meat, poultry, eggs, and dairy products come from animals that are given no antibiotics or growth hormones. Organic food is produced without using most conventional pesticides; fertilizers made with synthetic ingredients or sewage sludge; bioengineering; or ionizing radiation. Before a product can be labeled “organic,” a Government-approved certifier inspects the farm where the food is grown to make sure the farmer is following all the rules necessary to meet USDA organic standards. Companies that handle or process organic food before it gets to your local supermarket or restaurant must be certified, too.”
The organic food movement began in the 1940s in response to the widespread use of synthetic pesticides and herbicides. These chemicals were often used in excess, and they often found their way into the food we eat. The organic food movement was an effort to return to more natural, sustainable methods of agriculture.
Today, the organic food industry is a multi-billion dollar business. Many people believe that organic food is healthier for both the environment and for human health. There is some evidence to support these claims.
Organic food is grown without the use of synthetic pesticides.
Pesticides are chemicals that are used to kill pests, such as insects, weeds, and fungus. They are often applied to crops in an effort to prevent damage and increase yields. Pesticides can be either synthetic or natural.
Synthetic pesticides are man-made chemicals that are designed to kill pests. They are often more potent than natural pesticides, and they can remain active in the environment for long periods of time. Synthetic pesticides have been linked to a variety of health concerns, including cancer, endocrine disruption, and neurological problems.
Organic food is also not genetically modified.
Genetic modification is the process of altering the DNA of a plant or animal to create a new, desired trait. Genetic modification is often used to make crops more resistant to pests or to make them more tolerant of herbicides.
Genetic modification can have unintended consequences, however. It is possible for the genes of a genetically modified crop to spread to other, non-genetically modified plants. This can lead to the creation of “super weeds” or “super bugs” that are resistant to herbicides or pesticides.
There is some evidence that organic food is more nutritious than non-organic food.
A number of studies have found that organic food contains more vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants than non-organic food. These nutrients are important for human health.
One study found that organic tomatoes contained higher levels of vitamin C than non-organic tomatoes. Vitamin C is an important nutrient that helps the body to fight infection and to heal wounds.
Another study found that organic corn contained higher levels of antioxidants than non-organic corn. Antioxidants are important for human health because they help to protect cells from damage.
However, it is important to note that these studies are small and more research is needed to confirm these findings.
Organic food is grown without the use of synthetic pesticides, herbicides, or fertilizers.
Many people choose to purchase organic food in an effort to avoid these potential health risks.
