• Abstain from the application of prohibited materials
  (including synthetic fertilizers, pesticides, and sewage sludge)
  for 3 years prior to certification and then continually throughout
  their organic license.
• Prohibit the use of genetically modified organisms and irradiation.
• Employ positive soil building, conservation, manure management
  and crop rotation practices.
• Provide outdoor access and pasture for livestock.
• Refrain from antibiotic and hormone use in animals.
• Sustain animals on 100% organic feed.
• Avoid contamination during the processing of organic products.
• Keep records of all operations.

Organic products grown in healthier soil contain higher
levels of nutrients, and many taste better than their conventional counterparts. Organic fruits and vegetables test at minimal or zero pesticide residue levels and, with the passage of the USDA organic standards, consumers can now be assured producers follow earth-friendly cultivation and grazing practices. Millions of people choose organic foods as a way of showing their support for responsible business, strong communities, and local farmers.

The U.S. organic industry grew 21 percent overall to reach
$17.7 billion in consumer sales in 2006, according to The
Organic Trade Association’s 2007 Manufacturer Survey.
Organic foods grew 16.2 percent in 2005 and accounted for
$13.8 billion in sales. Nonfood organic products (personal care
products, nutritional supplements, household cleaners, flowers,
pet food, and clothing, bedding and other products from
organic fibers such as flax, wool, and cotton) grew 26 percent,
to total $938 million in U.S. sales in 2006.