Food labeled "organic" must meet the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) national standards. When you purchase food labeled as "organic," you can be assured that you are buying products that were produced using the highest level of organic production and handling standards.

What is organic food?
According to the USDA, organic food is produced by farmers who focus on the use of renewable resources and the conservation of soil and water to preserve and improve environmental quality for future use.

Organic meat, eggs, poultry and dairy products are from animals that are free of antibiotics or growth hormones. Organic foods are generally not produced using conventional pesticides, fertilizers produced with synthetic ingredients or sewage sludge; bioengineering; or ionizing radiation.

Before labeling a product "organic," a government-approved inspector is sent to inspect the producer's farm to ensure all rules are being followed and meet the USDA organic standards. Food handlers and processors must also be certified as well.

Does it taste better? Is it Healthier?
There are no official claims made by the USDA that organically produced food is healthier and better tasting. Organic food differs from non organic food in the way it is grown, handled and process.

How to identify organic food?
Look at the signs in your local supermarket indicating organic food along with reading packaging labels or look for the USDA organic seal with indicates at least 95% organic.

Other organic food information
The USDA organic seal may not be available on every organically produced food because the use of the seal is voluntary. Anyone who sells or label products as "organic" when it does not meet the USDA's standards can be fined up to $10,000 for each violation.