Home» Organic Glossary

Organic Glossary

What is organic?

Organic refers to the way agricultural products-food and fiber-are grown and processed. Organic food production is based on a system of farming that maintains and replenishes soil fertility without the use of toxic and persistent pesticides and fertilizers. Organic foods are minimally processed without artificial ingredients, preservatives, or irradiation to maintain the integrity of the food.

Is organic food better for you?

There is evidence to suggest that organically produced foods may be more nutritious. Organic foods and fiber are spared the application of toxic and insecticides, herbicides, fungicides and fertilizers. Organic farming techniques provide a safer environment for everyone.

What is the difference between "Natural" and "Organic" foods?

The difference between "natural" and "organic" foods is natural foods are modestly processed and do not contain artificial ingredients, preservatives and chemicals that are added to process the food. Certified organic foods are grown according to certain strict standards and without the use of artificial ingredients, preservative or chemicals.

What is Fair or Alternative Trade?

Fair Trade is an alternative approach to conventional international trade. It is a trading partnership which aims at sustainable development for excluded and disadvantaged producers. It seeks to do this by providing better trading conditions, by awareness raising and by campaigning. Three of the most important values of Fair Trade are that:

  • The workers who make or grow the product should be treated with dignity and fairness.
  • The businesses that bring us the products we buy must put people's needs ahead of their profits and be accountable for their practices to people beyond their shareholders.
  • The consumer, or buyer, should become aware of the conditions under which the product is made and put people's needs and dignity ahead of low prices.

What is Free Range?

This term refers to animals (usually poultry and the eggs that they produce) that are not confined, meaning that these animals are able to go outdoors to engage in natural behaviors. The use of the term "free range" is only defined by the USDA for poultry production, and need only mean that the bird has some access to the outdoors each day, which could be a dirty or concrete feedlot. The USDA considers five minutes of open-air access each day to be adequate. Claims are defined by the USDA, but are not verified by third party inspectors.