Big Green Planet

There are some topics and resources that overlap, because they are part of the lifestyle that goes with living in a way that is healthy for people and the planet. 

For instance, there is Mary Jane's Farm.  Mary Jane has written several books, produces a line of organic foods,runs an school, and a bed and breadfast all operating on the principles of caring for people and the land.  Visit Mary Jane's Farm site and learn more about the art of Organic homekeeping.

Be sure to visit our Organic Personal Care, Organic Eating, Organic Home Care, and Organic Gardening pages for more information. 

Organic by Definition

What exactly is organic?  The USDA now has a set of standards a product must meet in order to be labeled "organic".  Right now the term is used rather loosely by people to describe produce or livestock grown without pesticides or chemicals.  Some people call things organic without really understanding all the requirements involved.Organic labeling (with the seal) means that the food has been produced by the standards set by the USDA but does not mean the food meets any specific measured properties. 

By the standards, organic products must meet the following requirements.  First, crops grown will be grown on land that has not used any prohibited substances for 3 years.  It is preferred that organic seeds and seed stock be used but some non organic sources are acceptable.  Pest control is accomplished by non chemical means.  Livestock must be fed 100% organic feed and recieve no antibiotics or growth hormones.  All handling of products, processing, and packaging must be done according to the organic standards set for these procedures.  If all these requirements are met, the final product can carry the USDA organic seal.  A product may also carry the USDA seal if it is 95% organic.  The use of the seal is voluntary, so not all organic products will have the seal.  However, use of the seal without certification will result in a fine. 

Products may claim to be organic, but you can't know for sure unless you know how the products are produced.  If the product has the USDA seal, you can be sure it met the requirements for "organic" set by the USDA.  In the end, I would say "buyer beware".  Know your supplier by doing your homework about the company or producer.  Someone may grow a product organically but drop the ball by not seeing how the product is stored or processed.  This is even more reason to buy locally and know your grower.  Better yet, if you are able where food is concerned, grow it yourself and eat less processed foods.

For more information about the USDA certified organic program visit:  The National Organic Program 

	More about organic at Seeds of Change
	Organic Living in the UK
	Georgia Organics
	Organic.org - A little of everything related to organic
	Building something? Check here with Build It Green