Organic Food Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1750 words

Organic Food - Essay Example Almost all food stores now carry organic food. The popularity of organic food stores has increased because of its rapid demand all around the world. â€Å"The Annual sales of organic products in the United States are topping anywhere from $16.3 billion to $29.7 billion†. (Selvon, 2012) The demand has increased due to its several benefits. Grocery retailers who consider the consumer interest and reasons of rise in organic food consumption can eventually become market leaders. They are considered to be more nutritious, protect from harmful diseases, promotes well being and protects the environment. The National organic program was developed on 21st October 2002 and is a program for developing organic standards. It comprises of representatives from several categories such as farmer, retailer, processor, scientist, environmentalist and certifying agent. The USDA organic logo is an easy way to recognize organic products for the consumers and feel con?dent that they are purchasing a product that is pure and meets standards. The foods covered under current organic standards are fruits, meat and poultry, legumes, livestock feed, nuts, seeds and so on. Organic certification systems mostly have elements such as: 1. Standards: Standards must be clearly formulated and communicated among all parties. 2. Contracts and legal framework: Contracts and Legal framework should be bound by a legal system and written agreement. 3. Inspection: It is better that the inspection covers transactions, processing, production, labeling, storage and certification. 4. Certification: The three types of certification, direct certification, Co?certification and Local certification. Consumers needs and wants change with time. The consumers nowadays have started preferring organic food products over conventional foods. There are several reasons behind it. The main reason is that there is a rise in various diseases such as cancer, heart diseases, obesity etc. Consumers have become very healt h conscious. This health consciousness has risen because of increase in education attainment and media. (Minton, 2009) Various harmful chemicals such as heavy metals, synthetic pesticides and solvents such as benzene and toluene are found in non-organic foods. As Organic foods are chemical and toxin free so they protect individuals from several diseases and other harmful infections. (Nytimes, 2009) The study sponsored by the European Union confirmed that organic fruits and vegetables have more vitamins and minerals and up to  50% more antioxidants which are beneficial for humans. (Kidsorganics, n.d.) In addition people who are allergic to foods, chemicals or preservatives by switching to organic foods can gain relief. Children and fetuses less developed immune system is most vulnerable to pesticide and can cause behavioral disorders and developmental delays. Furthermore pregnant women should also avoid non-organic foods as these effects of harmful chemicals can be passed from them to their baby. (Medical news today, 2004) The fruits and vegetables with high pesticides in production are pears, peaches, spinach, celery, apple, grapes, bell peppers, potatoes and red raspberries. (Vitamin retailer, n.d.) Organic foods are fresh, natural, have better taste, color and flavor. Chefs nowadays mostly prefer to choose organic foods for their kitchens because of its superior taste. (Greenopolis, n.d.) Moreover, organic farming is better for other living things such as birds and small animals as pesticides can make it difficult for creatures to reproduce and can even kill them. Another reason is that consumers want to protect the environment from these harmful chemicals as they are the main cause of climatic change. Organic food produc