Organic foods are the fastest growing food segment in the United states, having grown from $11 billion in sales in the United States in 2001 to more than $20 billion today. By definition, organic foods are grown without synthetic pesticides, herbicides, or fertilizers and may not be irradiated or come from genetically modified seeds. Organic foods are often recognized by the Organic seal or labeled “Organic” on the package. The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) administers the National Organic Program and accredits private certification agencies to inspect and certify food producers.

USDA Organic Levels

There are officially four levels of Organic in the US, defined by USDA Guidelines:

1. "100% Organic", displays the USDA Organic seal. Used when 100 percent of the ingredients and methods are organic.
2. "Organic", displays the USDA Organic seal. Used when 95 percent or more of the ingredients are organic.
3. “Made with Organic," does not display the USDA Organic Seal. Used when at least 70 percent of the ingredients are organic.
4. Products with less than 70 percent organic ingredients do not display the USDA Organic Seal.  Organic wording or references are used on the side of the package label only.

Health Impacts

Eating organic foods may protect your health. Although there are a number studies that show higher levels of certain nutrients in organically grown foods, in general there is not enough evidence to definitively say that organic food is more nutritious than conventionally grown foods. What the research does suggest is that people who consume organic foods have lower levels of pesticides in their bodies than individuals who do not eat organic foods. Common pesticides have been linked to reproductive problems, fetal defects, neurological damage, and cancer. Developing children are particularly vulnerable to pesticide exposures.

Environmental Impacts

Organic may also be good for the environment. Studies on the environmental benefits of organic agriculture indicate that organically managed food production can enhance soil structures, help conserve water, and protect biodiversity. The application of synthetic pesticides and fertilizers in conventional food production can contaminate ground and surface water and release harmful pollutants into the air.

Social Impacts

Studies link exposure to synthetic pesticides and fertilizers among farm workers and neighboring communities to severe health problems, including respiratory conditions, nausea and weakness, headaches, skin irritation, cancer, depression, neurologic deficits, and birth defects.

Organic livestock management provides animals with fresh air and outdoor access, while restricting the use of antibiotics and growth hormones. Organic farms can also sustain diverse populations of plants and animals, and produce less waste than conventional farming practices.