The word organic on a food or food product guarantees that it has been grown, handled, and processed according to strict production standards that reduce and eliminate the use of toxic, persistent pesticides and fertilizers, and that prohibit the use of genetic engineering, irradiation, sewage sludge, growth hormones, and antibiotics. Though some organic foods may be produced to a higher standard, at least all organic foods so labeled will be free of these harmful practices.
"Organically grown" (often called "organic" for short) foods and fibers are those grown or raised without synthetic fertilizers, pesticides (including herbicides, insecticides, fungicides), artificial ripening processes, growth stimulators and regulators such as hormones, or antibiotics and other drugs. In addition, organically grown foods must also be processed, packaged, transported and stored without the use of chemicals such as fumigants, artificial additives, and preservatives, and without food irradiation. Organically grown fibers are specially processed to reduce or eliminate toxic substances in all phases of production.
As is common in previous certification programs, the national certification requires a three-year period before the harvest of a certified crop during which the land is free from synthetic chemicals. Growers and processors who want to be certified have to submit a written plan of their organic practices. After harvest, processors are not allowed to add any synthetic ingredients or ingredients that haven't been produced organically unless they are approved by the program or represent less than five percent of the finished product. They also cannot add sulfites to wine or foods, or nitrates and nitrites to processed meats or other foods. Fungicides, preservatives and fumigants are forbidden in packaging, and even any water used has to meet federal standards for safety.
Livestock (including wild game, poultry, fish, and other forms of nonplant life) is also covered under this law. To be called "organic", only organically grown feed can be given-no growth promoters, hormones, antibiotics (except to treat illness) or other synthetic substances that are routinely used in this country. Dairy cattle have to be raised in this way for at least one year before their milk or products made from their milk are certified.
© 2004 Lambert Klein - Think Healthy - CoralCure
Disclaimer
The statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease, but rather are supplements intended for nutritional support. It may take up to 60 - 90 days for some people to feel the benefits.