Delicious Tidbit--Define Organic

So instead of me just yammering away, I'm going to have some "guest" bloggers. When you see posts that start with "Delicious Tidbit" you will be treated to an entry by Clara Moore. Clara is our catering manager at the cafe and maker of the oh so famous Clara's Hummus.
So, here's the first entry.....


Hello everyone. Clara here, your local culinary artist, hummus-maker, and great believer that an informed customer is an invaluable customer. I wanted to share a little tidbit of knowledge to make your shopping and dining experience with us far more interesting.
So, what does organic really mean?
Everyone is familiar with organic food, right? – I mean, Walmart has it's own organic line now. Everyone knows that organic is better for you, right? but does anyone actually know what organic means and why it is better for you?

The official national guidelines for acquiring organic certification where set by the USDA, released in 2000 and states that produce must be grow under certain conditions:
-no use of artificial fertilizers, chemical/conventional pesticides, or sewer sludge (human waste)
-must use organically produced seeds and planting stock
-must rotate crops to retain the nutrients in the soil
-can only use chemicals from a very short list
-no use of genetically modified seeds or plant stock
-can not be exposed to irradiation or any additives
-and must be grown under sustainable growing practices (basically, practices that allow the natural ecosystem to thrive)

In turn, these guidelines produce a healthier and more tasty product. Without chemical intervention, the produce is allowed to grow under it's natural conditions and ends up with more vitamins and antioxidants. It also limits the toxicity in the bodies of those who eat it. Sustainable farming practices are better on the environment and generally use less fossil fuels.

Organic is usually more expensive, but there is much more to gain by eating it.

A short explanation of organic labeling:
100% organic – grown and/or produced under USDA organic guidelines
organic – 95% of the product has been grown and/or produced under USDA organic guidelines
made with organic ingredients – at least 70% of the product has been grown and/or produced using the USDA organic guidelines, and the remaining ingredients cannot be genetically engineered, irradiated, or fertilized with sewer sludge
Thanks for reading, and keep doing it local!"

Knowledge has sweet savory, honeyed things which precede in value all other treasures as sovereign..." - Christine de Pisan