What Does Organic Really Mean?

What Is Organic

A poison ivy sandwich may be natural and organic but is it really good for you?

An early mentor of mine once challenged me with that question. Of course, by it’s nature the question didn’t merit a serious reply.

Personal Opinion Often Rules the Day
Just the same it challenges us to think about our understanding of what we assume to be general knowledge. Todays consumers assume natural or organic must be better than other foods; right?
Unfortunately, too often this question is answered with an opinion; or worse, a personal bias from what we heard or what we want to believe. 
Internet gurus will blather on and convince readers that their food supply is unhealthy, poisonous, and must be rejected and avoided. Then they will expend unending time and effort trying to sell those same readers an overpriced product that is promised to save them from untold disease and destruction. 
Actual facts and truths often don’t find their way into such discussions. 
What the Critics Say
Critics argue that herbicides and pesticides used on produce make them unsafe and unhealthy to consume. The government places strict limits on usage and conducts extensive monitoring tests.  Just the same, every year there is an incident of sickness.  These are usually due to foods imported from countries with less control but sometimes domestically as well.
Other critics argue that “healthy” foods have less control over what is in or on them. For instance, “free-range” poultry and animals are free to eat whatever they find. This includes insects and microbes on their forage. On the other hand, farm raised animals receive controlled diets and nutrition.
Informed Decisions Are the Best Decisions
It’s not our intent to decide what is good or what is bad. It is not our intent to decide what is or what is not best to be part of anyone’s personal diet.  Whatever makes someone healthy, happy, and vibrant is what is good for them; period.
We are here to share current government labeling guidelines and requirements as well as industry  standards. Once you have all the facts, and all the truths, you will be able to make a more informed choice for what is best for you.