Organic Label Requirements
Products labeled "organic" must contain at least 95% organically produced ingredients (excluding water and salt). Produce can be called organic if it’s certified to have grown on soil that had no prohibited substances applied for three years prior to harvest.
Benefits of Organic Food
Organic food has been grown or farmed using an organic farming system that prohibits chemical fertilizers, pesticides, hormones, antibiotics, or genetically modified organisms. It is also free of artificial additives like preservatives, coloring, sweeteners, flavoring, and monosodium glutamate, making it a healthier option.
Certification Process
It takes 2 years to get certified as an organic producer, with exceptions for certain types of orchards. Initially, producers need to ensure that their products meet the organic standards and comply with facility and production modifications.
USDA Organic Seal
Packaged foods with the USDA Organic seal contain at least 95% organic ingredients. Another category is "made with organic ingredients," requiring a minimum of 70% organic content in the product.
Understanding "Made with Organic"
When goods are labeled "made with organic," it means they contain at least 70% organic ingredients. The remaining 30% may not be organic but cannot include genetic engineering or substances prohibited in 100% organic products.