What Does Organic Really Mean?
Although there is not yet a nationwide legal definition of the term organic, generally it means that the food was grown in soil that had no synthetic chemicals added for a minimum of three years. If the food is processed, it's done without chemical additives or preservatives. Organic farmers use natural pesticides and fertilizers like compost and manure, and they employ sustainable farming methods such as pest management and crop rotation.
Note: Organic doesn't mean pesticide-free, however. Some organic foods may have residues of pesticides from chemicals sprayed on crops of neighboring farms, or from contaminated runoff water or shifting soil.
