Have You Gone Organic?

• Have you gone organic?

Suzi Milovanovic

You don't have to be a radical tree hugger to appreciate the benefits of organic foods have to offer, but is making the conscious effort to choose organic over conventional really worth it? We think so -- and here are 10 reasons why.

Humane treatment of animals

Organic farming seeks to encourage an abundance of species to live in balanced, harmonious ecosystems. A much greater diversity of birds, butterflies and plants thrive on organic farms than on their conventional counterparts.

a healthy choice for the planet

When you choose organic, you are supporting a farming system that keeps toxic and persistent pesticides and synthetic fertilizers out of our water, soil and air. Many EPA-approved pesticides were registered long before extensive research linked these types of chemicals to cancer and other diseases. Organic agriculture is one way to prevent them from getting into the environment.

reduced dependence on non-renewable resources

Instead of using petrochemical-based fertilizers, organic farmers use recycled products from other industries that would otherwise go to waste.

healthy soils

Organic farming builds naturally fertile soil and prevents soil erosion. Organic farmers continually add organic matter to the soil, a practice that results in less water usage and soil erosion, and sustainable, fertile soil.

reduced chemical and toxin use

In conventional farming, more and more chemicals are needed as pests become more resistant to chemical pesticides and as soil structure deteriorates, making conventional farming's long-term viability questionable. Organic farming works without producing pesticide-resistant insects and preserves beneficial insect populations.

High quality standards

Organic certification is the public's assurance that products have been grown and handled according to strict procedures. You can be certain that the foods you eat have been grown without the use of chemicals -- no more questioning the ethics of the farmer who raised the produce on your plate.

a safer workplace for farm workers

Eliminating exposure to toxic pesticides creates a healthier environment for people who work in the fields -- and their families, too.

higher nutrition

Organic produce contains more vitamins, nutrients and cancer-fighting antioxidants than non-organic food. It makes common sense: Well-balanced soils produce strong, healthy plants that become nourishing food.

superior taste

Many top chefs are cooking with organic fruits and vegetables primarily because of their fresh, clean taste and excellent quality. The richness of the natural flavors reflects the pure nutrients of the soil.

Protection of future generations

Eating organic foods reduces unborn babies' exposure to pollutants during prenatal development. Likewise, organic farming protects the environment they will inherit by using less water and eliminating pesticides and airborne toxicity.

When it comes to growing and processing organic food and products, less means more for both you and the environment.