Organic Grown Vs. Pesticides

Identification

• Foods that are labeled "organic" are grown without the aid of synthetic fertilizers and pesticides. Organic-grown foods may be grown with the help of pesticides that are derived from natural sources, such as biological pesticides. Foods that are not labeled organic are likely to have been produced with chemical pesticides and fertilizers.

Certification

• To carry the organic label, products must be certified by a certification agency that is approved by the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA). The national standards for organic foods are provided by the National Organic Program.

Benefits

• Organic foods reduce exposure to pesticide residues found on conventional products. However, studies have not shown that organic foods contain more nutrients than conventionally grown products, according to the University of Arizona Cooperative Extension. Conventional foods tend to be much less expensive and widely available than organic products are.