Organic Food Production

When talking about organic agriculture, it is important to define the term "organic". Let's start with the definition provided by the USDA. according to the USDA, "Organic food is produced without using most conventional pesticides; fertilizers made with synthetic ingredients or sewage sludge; bioengineering; or ionizing radiation" (1). I feel that it is good for the food industry that the term organic was legally defined because it allows organic food producers to sell their produce for higher prices and to grow higher-value crops. It is also good for the consumer because it assures them of safer produce, meat, poultry, eggs, and dairy products that have not antibiotics or growth hormones. I believe that organic food is better for people and the environment because it is grown, produced, and handled in a safer manner and is a sustainable agriculture that is environmentally friendly. Organic agriculture, as defined by the National Organic Standards Board (NOSB) is, "an ecological production management system that promotes and enhances biodiversity, biological cycles and soil biological activity. It is based on minimal use of off-farm inputs and on management practices that restore, maintain, and enhance ecological harmony" (2). The only drawback I can see of organic agriculture is that it is more labor intensive. I feel that the "big business" of organics should take over and become the norm in the food markets. We need to have more whole foods and safer produce and other food products. Organic agriculture can produce enough food to sustain society in a healthier and more environmentally sustainable manner.