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Essay / The definition of organic food needs to be redefined
Organic and non-organic foods are still debated over whether they are worth the extra cost. This question seems easy at first glance, but requires further analysis to reach a conclusion. Organic definitions can vary by government, company, and even individuals. Many people have their own ideas of what organic means. My personal definition, before this research mission, was that organic produce was grown without pesticides, chemical additives or preservatives and grown humanely. Which means that if it was written 100% organic, that’s what it meant. However, this is not the case when it comes to the government's definition of organic, according to TA Niewold who wrote: “Organic is healthier; Green shoots in a scientific semi-desert.” There are many cases where a single term can change the entire meaning of a definition. This is the case for organic eggs. According to Niewold, only 80% of the food consumed by chickens should be "organic", while no one pays attention to the remaining 20% (21). This is just one example of why I believe our government should more closely regulate the meaning of the word organic, as the definitions are not adequate to protect us from pathogens and other contaminants that may be contained in these so-called organic foods. While organic foods have always been more expensive, some of us felt they were worth the extra expense because they were perceived to have a higher nutritional value than traditional foods. According to an article in Redbook magazine, organically grown foods are healthier because they contain fewer pesticides and fertilizers. This helps with the production of phytochemicals which increases due to the need for... middle of paper ... the organic movement, and criticizes people who want organic foods as "fanatics". Presley, Jimmie. “Mad cow disease will cost businesses nearly $6 billion. » February 25, 2004. Web. August 17, 2011.http://www.organicconsumers.org/madcow/billion225-4.cfmThis article discusses the cost of the mad cow epidemic. Sizer, Frances and Ellie Whitney. “Nutrition: concepts and controversies, 11th edition”. California. Thomson Wadsworth. 2010. Print. This book talks about nutrition and the pros and cons of organic foods. As well as other healthy habits. General Thesis Statement: Is the cost of organic food an additional cost? Thesis: Our government should regulate the organic industry more closely because current definitions are not adequate to protect us from pathogens and other contaminants that may be contained in so-called organic foods..