Consumption of organic fruits and vegetables increases each year as we see most grocery stores and even superstores such as Wal-Mart carrying a variety of organic food products. The benefits of eating organic fruits and vegetables include the absence of pesticides, a more natural approach to the production of food products and conservation of the environment.
What Constitutes Organic?
The National Organic Program developed by the U.S. Department of Agriculture sets standards for organic foods regulating how farmers grow, handle and process their crops. In order for fruits or vegetables to be labeled organic they must be certified by the USDA National Organic Program.
Labeling
To be considered organic, fruits and vegetables must have the seal "USDA organic," which is generally printed in brown and green or black and white. The National Organic Program also considers it acceptable to display a sign above the produce that states it is organic.
Nutrition and Quality
The Mayo Clinic reports in the article "Organic Foods: Are they safer? More nutritious?" that the nutritional value of organic food is similar to that of conventionally grown food. The difference lies in how organic fruits and vegetables are produced. There are no preservatives, waxes or pesticides applied to organic produce, and farming of organic fruits and vegetables is more beneficial to the soil and environment.
Purchasing Trends
"The Organic Food Market" study published by the University of Michigan Agricultural Department reports that spending for organic food products in 2006 passed $3.6 billion in the U.S and is expected to increase an additional 70 percent by 2011. Seventy percent of the people surveyed purchased organic fruits and vegetables, with total sales equaling $665 million in 2006.
Demand and Supply
The demand continues to grow for organic fruits and vegetables. "The Organic Food Market" reported those most concerned about their health, the environment and sustainable farming tend to purchase organic produce. Once found only in farmer's markets and health food stores, organic fruits and vegetables are becoming mainstream. The perceived cost associated with purchasing organic produce may become less of an issue as the demand and supply continues to increase.
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