What is organic food?

The term “organic” refers to the process of how certain foods are produced.

Organic foods have been grown or farmed without the use of artificial
chemicals, hormones, antibiotics or genetically modified organisms.

In order to be labelled organic, a food product must be free of artificial food

additives.

This includes artificial sweeteners, preservatives, colouring, flavouring

and monosodium glutamate (MSG).

Organically grown crops tend to use natural fertilizers like manure to improve
plant growth. Animals raised organically are also not given antibiotics or
hormones.

Organic farming tends to improve soil quality and the conservation of

groundwater. It also reduces pollution and may be better for the environment.

The most commonly purchased organic foods are fruits,

vegetables, grains, dairy products and meat. Nowadays there are also many
processed organic products available, such as sodas, cookies and breakfast
cereals.

What are the Benefits of organic food?

Organic produce contains fewer pesticides: Chemicals such
as synthetic fungicides, herbicides, and insecticides are widely used in
conventional agriculture and residues remain on (and in) the food we eat.

Organic food is often fresher: because it doesn’t contain preservatives that

make it last longer. Organic produce is sometimes (but not always, so watch
where it is from) produced on smaller farms nearer to where it is sold.

Organic farming tends to be better for the environment: Organic farming

practices may reduce pollution, conserve water, reduce soil erosion, increase
soil fertility, and use less energy. Farming without synthetic pesticides is also
better for nearby birds and animals as well as people who live close to farms.