The following information comes directly from the United States Department of Agriculture, National Organic Program.

What is organic food?

Organic food is produced by farmers who emphasize the use of renewable resources and the conservation of soil and water to enhance environmental quality for future generations. Organic meat, poultry, eggs, and dairy products come from animals that are given no antibiotics or growth hormones. Organic food is produced without using most conventional pesticides; fertilizers made with synthetic ingredients or sewage sludge; bioengineering; or ionizing radiation.

Before a product can be labeled “organic,” a Government-approved certifier inspects the farm where the food is grown to make sure the farmer is following all the rules necessary to meet USDA organic standards. Companies that handle or process organic food before it gets to your local supermarket or restaurant must also be certified.

Is organic food better for me and my family?

The USDA makes no claims that organically produced food is safer or more nutritious than conventionally produced food. Organic food differs from conventionally produced food in the way it is grown, handled and processed.

When I go to the supermarket, how can I tell organically produced food from conventionally produced food?

Look at package labels and watch for signs in the supermarket. Along with the national organic standards, the USDA developed strict labeling rules to help consumers know the exact organic content of the food they buy. The USDA Organic seal also tells you that a product is at least 95 percent organic. Look for the word “organic” and a small sticker version of the seal on single ingredient foods such as vegetables, pieces of fruit, packages of meat, cartons of milk or eggs and cheese. (Labels may also appear on a display sign.)

Labels may also appear on foods with more than one ingredient. Products with less than 70 percent organic ingredients may list specific organically produced ingredients on the side panel of the package, but may not make any organic claims on the front of the package.

NOTE: The use of the seal is voluntary. You may not find the USDA Organic seal on 100 percent organic products, or products with at least 95 percent organic ingredients?

People who sell or label a product “organic” when they know it does not meet USDA standards can be fined up to $10,000 for each violation.

Does “natural” mean organic?

No. Natural and organic are not interchangeable. Other truthful claims, such as free-range, hormone-free and natural, can still appear on food labels. However, don’t confuse these terms with “organic.” Only food labeled “organic” has been certified as meeting USDA organic standards.