All organic produce must be produced without the use of synthetic fertilizers, irradiation, pesticides, and genetic engineering. The soil in which the organic food is grown must have been free of chemical fertilizers and herbicides for at least three years, and must maintain a buffer zone between organic and non-organic plants. Moreover, the seed from which the produce is grown cannot be genetically modified in any manner.

Reasons to Buy Organic Produce
Organic fruits and vegetables must adhere to stringent guidelines put forth by a certifying body. Not only are consumers who buy organic produce ensured food that has been grown and handled without the use of potentially harmful toxins, but they are also supporting organic farms, which in turn are supporting and respecting our environment in the following fashion:

  • By refraining from the use of chemicals, organic farmers are protecting valuable water sources and reducing toxic runoff.
  • Organic produce farming is energy-efficient due to the fact that it does not employ the use of nitrogen fertilizers. Studies have shown that the nitrogen compounds in certain fertilizers may contribute to global warming.
  • The soil on organic farms tends to hold more carbon dioxide (an essential greenhouse gas that effects climate change), thereby reducing carbon dioxide emissions into the atmosphere.
  • Organic farmers employ the technique of crop rotation, which allows the soil’s fertility to recover in its own time.

Nutritional Value
On average, studies have shown that conventionally grown produce has only 83% of the nutrients of organic produce. Organically grown fruits and vegetables have nine times more salicylic acid, a compound that aids in preventing the hardening of the body’s arteries. Organic produce contains more iron, magnesium, phosphorous, vitamin C, and are higher in flavonoids, which are helpful in preventing cancer and heart disease.

Cost
The cost of organic produce tends to be higher than that of its conventionally grown counterparts. Yields on organic farms are generally smaller due to the labor intensity involved. These farms must operate without the use of certain technological aids that could ease the workload. Although the cost tends to be higher, many believe that the taste and inherent value in buying organic produce is worth the extra money. Not only is it safer to consume, but it also supports the local economy and the precious environment as a whole.