USDA - Organic Farming and Marketing

Overview:

Organic farming became one of the fastest growing segments of U.S. agriculture during the 1990's. U.S. producers are turning to certified organic farming systems as a potential way to lower input costs, decrease reliance on nonrenewable resources, capture high-value markets and premium prices, and boost farm income. Organic farming systems rely on ecologically based practices, such as cultural and biological pest management, and virtually exclude the use of synthetic chemicals in crop production and prohibit the use of antibiotics and hormones in livestock production. Many producers, manufacturers, distributors, and retailers specialize in growing, processing, and marketing an ever widening array of organic food and fiber products. More overview...

http://www.ers.usda.gov/briefing/Organic/

The Musts and Myths of Organic and Locally Grown

I reached out to two experts in the field for some solid answers. Joy Bauer, nutritionist extraordinaire, breaks down the musts and myths of organic and local, while Ryan Hardy, the fresh-market-obsessed chef at The Montagna in Aspen

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When buying organic pays (and doesn't)

Know when it pays to buy organic food products to reduce your exposure to pesticides and other additives, when it might sometimes pay, and when it’s a waste of your money. Use this section the next time you’re making a grocery list. (See our tips on getting organic food for less.)

Buy these items organic as often as possible:

What Apples, bell peppers, celery, cherries, imported grapes, nectarines, peaches, pears, potatoes, red raspberries, spinach, and strawberries......

Read the complete Consumer Report here:

http://www.consumerreports.org/cro/food/organic-products-206/when-buying-organic-pays-and-doesnt/index.htm

Choose Wisely in the Organic Food Aisle

Organic foods advocates say it's getting tougher to choose the best organic offerings. They say some companies are cutting corners in the interest of boosting profits, and that consumers must educate themselves on how to read labels or do research on which companies are producing the best products.

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Organic Food 'Better' for Heart

A ten-year study comparing organic tomatoes with standard produce found almost double the level of flavonoids - a type of antioxidant.Flavonoids have been shown to reduce high blood pressure, lowering the risk of heart disease and stroke.

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Organic Living

We'll be posting helpful tips and advice for organic Living.