What Is Organic?

The word “organic” refers to food that is grown without synthetic fertilizers or pesticides. In recent years, the consumer market has indicated a shift in favor of organic products, thanks to better taste, higher quality, and eco-friendly farming and manufacturing processes. In fact, according to a recent study, 65% of shoppers now prefer organic items when buying food and household products. This number is predicted to surge through 2016, with retail sales expected to surpass a whopping $58 million.

Popularity of organic foods can be attributed to the close regulatory guidelines that manufacturers are required to follow. Regulation is conducted before farming can even begin: To be labeled organic, farming soil must not contain prohibited substances for at least three years prior to harvest. After plants begin to grow, farmers are required to administer approved methods of weed and pest control. Finally, when the harvest is complete, food is only labeled organic after it has been verified that no artificial colors, preservatives, or flavors were added. As shown in the infographic below, all steps of the organic farming process work together to benefit both our health and the availability of earth’s natural resources.