What does “organic” mean? Simply stated, organic produce and other ingredients are grown without the use of pesticides, synthetic fertilizers, sewage sludge, genetically modified organisms, or ionizing radiation. Animals that produce meat, poultry, eggs, and dairy products do not take antibiotics or growth hormones. Why does organic cost more? The truth of the matter is that organic food doesn’t always cost more. Some items, such as coffee, cereal, bread, and even hamburger, may cost the same or even less than their conventional counterparts. And, as the demand for organics continues to grow, the cost will continue to come down. When the cost is higher, consider these facts: - Organic farmers don’t receive federal subsidies like conventional farmers do. Therefore, the price of organic food reflects the true cost of growing. - The price of conventional food does not reflect the cost of environmental cleanups that we pay for through our tax dollars. - Organic farming is more labor and management intensive. - Organic farms are usually smaller than conventional farms and so do not benefit from the economies of scale that larger growers get.
Posted on: Sun, 10 Aug 2014 16:53:50 +0000