Why Organic | Fitward

why organic?

According the USDA, organic crops and livestock are ...

Required to meet USDA organic regulations.

Produced without genetic engineering, ionizing radiation, or sewage sludge.

Managed such that natural resources and biodiversity is conserved.

Regulated by National List of Allowed and Prohibited

Substances

Overseen by USDA National Organic Program-

authorized certifying agent

Organic Crop Production Practices

SOIL QUALITY

Maintained with natural means. No sewage sludge or biosolids.

PESTS, WEEDS, DISEASES

Relies on prevention, avoidance, monitoring, and suppression. Approved pesticides are a last resort.

SEEDS/PLANTING STOCK

Must be organic. Not genetically modified or treated with prohibited substances.

IDENTITY & INTEGRITY

Producers required to maintain identity and integrity of organic crops.

CROP ROTATION

Naturally manages issues with soil, insects & farm biodiversity. Required by USDA organic regulations.

OVERSIGHT

Overseen & regulated by USDA. Products must be certified by USDA-accredited certifying agent.

Organic Livestock Production Practices

CONDITIONS, FACILITIES

Living areas to encourage and natural behavior. Access to outdoors, shade, shelter, space for exercise, fresh air, clean drinking water, direct sunlight.

ORGANIC FEED

Certified organic feed. Any pastures, forages, and plant-based bedding accessible must be certified organic.

ANIMAL HEALTH

Relies on prevention. Well adapted breeds. Use of balanced nutrition, exercise, low stress. Vaccinations but no antibiotics or growth hormones.

ANIMAL ORIGIN

Must be raised organically since last third of gestation. Birds used for poultry or eggs can be from any source, raised organically from 2nd day of life.