Introduction

Organic products are grown in environmentally friendly ways. Toxic or persistent pesticides and other agricultural chemicals are prohibited. There is a focus on renewable resources and the conservation of soil and water to enhance environmental quality. The label “organic" denotes products produced under the authority of the U.S. Department of Agriculture's (USDA) Organic Rule. And, according to the USDA, “The principal guidelines for organic production are to use materials and practices that enhance the ecological balance of natural systems and that integrate the parts of the farming system into an ecological whole.”

Why eat organic?
Avoiding agricultural chemicals is one of the top reasons to eat organic food. In general, according to research by The Hartman Group, consumers who buy organic products cite health/nutrition, taste and food safety as the top motivators for their purchases. Environmental effects are also a strong reason to buy and eat organic products.

Benefits of Organic Foods

Organic foods provide a variety of benefits to the people when compared to their conventionally grown counterparts. Some of the benefits are:
• Organic produce is pesticides free.Pesticides are harmful chemicals such as fungicides, herbicides, and insecticides. These chemicals are widely used in conventional agriculture and residues remain on (and in) the food we eat.
• Organic food is available fresh. Organic food tastes better as it is grown using natural ingredients, rather than petroleum-based fertilizers and synthetic pesticides . Organic food is usually fresher because it doesn’t contain preservatives that make it last longer.
• Organic produce is safer & Healthier :Organic food is generally grown without harmful chemical fertilizers and pesticides. Vegetables grown under organic practices aren’t fed antibiotics or growth hormones. Hence, they have up to 50% more antioxidants ,which scientists believe can cut the risk of cancer and heart disease.They have also more vitamins and minerals such as iron and zinc.
•  Protection against diseases.:Due to the presence of more antioxidants, minerals and non-use of harmful fertilizers and pesticides, organic food contains more nutrients to fight and protect the human body against a number of diseases such as liver problems, constipation, piles, water retention, gas, obesity, skin disease, chronic cold, cardiac problems, arthritis, high cholesterol and so on.
•  Organic farming is better for the environment.Organic farming practices reduce pollution (air, water, soil), conserve water, reduce soil erosion, increase soil fertility, and use less energy. Farming without pesticides is also better for nearby birds and small animals as well as people who live close to or work on farms.