Organic foods have become one of the hottest food trends in the industry. The Organic Trade Association reports that sales of organic foods grew by 22 percent in 2006, accounting for $16.9 billion spent. Why do shoppers prefer organic foods? An August 2004 survey of 1,000 U.S. consumers cited these top reasons for buying organic foods:

· Better for the environment (58 percent)
· Better for health (54 percent)
· Better for supporting small and local farmers (57 percent)

In addition, 32 percent believe organic products taste better, while 42 percent believe organic foods are of better quality.

What is organic?
Before a product can be labeled “organic,” a USDA Government-approved certifier inspects the farm where the food is grown to make sure the farmer is following all the rules needed to meet USDA organic standards. To earn the organic label, organic foods must be produced without:

· Antibiotics or growth hormones
· Most conventional pesticides
· Fertilizers made with synthetic ingredients
· Sewage sludge
· Bioengineering
· Ionizing radiation

The USDA makes no claims that organic food is safer or more nutritious than conventionally produced food. However, nutrition experts do agree that a diet high in fruits and vegetables—whether organically or conventionally grown—is associated with better overall health.