Going Organic

USDA certified organic seal.

The USDA certifies products as organic if:
 food is grown or handled without using genetic engineering or genetically modified
organisms;
 before packaging, food avoids contact with any prohibited, nonorganic substances;
 produce is grown on soil that has not had synthetic fertilizers or pesticides for three
years prior to harvesting; and
 animals are raised in living conditions that support their natural behaviors, are given
organic feed, and are not given antibiotics or hormones.

Organic farming practices:
 include planting native vegetation, introducing helpful insects, adding organic matter to
soil, and managing livestock across sensitive habitat areas.
 provide food and habitat for pollinators, protect bird and mammal habitats, prevent soil
and water pollution, and increase drought resiliency.

How can you spot organic items?
 A USDA organic badge will only appear on items that are 95-100% organic.
 If the front of packaging says “organic” but does not have a USDA seal, check the ingredient
list. If the list doesn’t include organic ingredients, this can signal an organic imposter!

Mark your calendar!
 Carmel Farmers Market occurs every Saturday, 8 – 11:30 a.m., through September
 September: National Organic Month