Organic Food and It's Advantages

Organic foods come in different varieties. Produce and even certain meats that provide much needed protein, are being provided in an organic way. Basically it is food that is grown that is free of pesticides, fertilizers, human waste, sewage sludge, ionizing radiation, food additives, growth hormones, or anything that is genetically modified. Many of these produce and meats come from what is called am organic farm.

When you go to certain grocery stores, they may have a section that is strictly labeled organic food section. You can always expect to pay more for organic food. Because they are chemical free. In many cases, they take extra work.

Recently, I was able to visit an organic greenhouse. The man who owned it, even used seeds that were not treated. He collected the seeds from his original organic plants, dried them and used them for new organic food. He explained that by growing them in a greenhouse, he was keeping them free of the additives that could be carried in the air or by the wind. The soil that he used came from a river bottom land that was very black and rich and chemical free.

Organic foods account for only 2% of the food consumed worldwide. However that percentage is growing at a 20% rate each year among growers. There are requirements for farms and farmers to meet to classify their food as organic. The items must be at least 95% organic and their farms must be certified by the federal government to prove that they are truly organic. Third party inspectors are required.

Organic farms have an impact on the environment as well. By not using chemicals, they are keeping the ecosystems of life, plant, insect, and animal life, pure. This is also having an impact for humans as well.

With the tomato scare lately, there has been a more conscious awareness of and protection of food that is being provided for consumption. The same is true with the fear of mad cow disease. The way meat was being raised in beef, pork, and poultry is scrutinized more than ever.

The main problem with raising organic food has been in the yield. The yield tends to not be as good as those that are manipulated through the efforts of science. However, that might be changing. Soil that is not treated is beginning to show that they can retain nutrients and have a higher retention for water to help grow their produce.

In 2007, a major study was done on organic food. It was discovered that organic foods had a 40% higher rate of retaining anti-oxidants than other farm products. 90 % higher in organic milk. This is an important finding because, a high emphasis is being placed on anti-oxidants in today's society.

Some organic foods will cost the consumer 10 to 40 percent more. However, if you know where an organic farm or farmers market is located, the cost may not be that high.

So what type of products are organic? Meats, dairy, eggs, fruits, vegetables, whole grains, jelly preserves, beans, nuts, potatoes, and even fermented wines can be organic in nature.

Keep in mind though, that all organic foods have to have been approved by the National Organic Program that is governed by the United States Department of Agriculture.

sources; http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Organic_food