When we posted about "organic" foods in the past (with a focus on what the label actually does and does not mean), we got a lot of angry messages from folks thinking that we were lumping in local farming with the global "organic" label. We were not.
Remember, organic is a term applied to food items that adhere to the USDA organic regulations. This refers to the types of pesticides used (yes, organic foods still use pesticides), the fact that no GMO seeds or products can be used, and there are also regulations on antibiotic and hormone use in livestock/poultry.
If you want to learn more about what the organic label really means, check out our two-part podcast on this topic!
Unfortunately, along with conflating organic products with “healthier and better for the environment” compared to conventional products (they are neither), many people also confuse the term organic with locally-sourced.
Organic is a certification given by the USDA and is often confused with local small-scale growers, but they are not the same. Local farms can adhere to organic farming practices, but they can also use conventional methods.
However, sourcing products locally within your community can have benefits.
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