Organic Farming

The Organic Foods Production Act and the NOP rule require that agricultural products labeled as organic originate from farms or handling operations certified by a state or private agency that has been accredited by USDA. Neither the Organic Foods Production Act nor the NOP rule address food safety or nutrition. The NOP rule prohibits the use of genetic engineering (included in the list of excluded methods), ionizing radiation, and sewage sludge. The rule includes the following:     

• Production and handling requirements, which address organic crop production, wild crop harvesting, organic livestock management, and processing and handling of organic agricultural products
• The National List of Allowed Synthetic and Prohibited Non-Synthetic Substances (7 CFR 205.600-205.606)
• Labeling requirements for organic products
• Compliance, testing, fee, and state program approval requirements
• Certification and recordkeeping requirements
• Accreditation requirements for receiving and maintaining accreditation, as well as requirements for foreign accreditation
• Other administrative functions of the National Organic Program, which include evaluation of foreign organic certification program

Although organic farming is more expensive, organic products have many benefits. Some of these benefits are: the lack of toxic residues of conventional food, more nutritious, healthier (higher in antioxidants), pesticide reduction, better taste, environmental safety, etc.

When compared to fertilized crops organic crops are overall better. Although fertilized crops are cheaper, they are also loaded with chemicals. These chemicals, in the long run, can be harmful to the human body. If you want to save money on organic products, grow your own organically.

To learn more about organic farming, check out the rest of the EPA's blog here.