What's the Difference? Conventional vs. Organic Farming

Recently I've become more fascinated with the food industry and especially the health effects of conventional farming vs. organic. Organic food is produced using ecological conscious practices without the use of synthetic chemicals, genetically engineered materials, sewage sludge or irradiation. Conventional farmers apply fertilizers to promote plant growth. Organic farmers, however, apply natural fertilizers such as manure or compost, to feed soil and plants! Conventional methods include spraying insecticides to reduce pests and diseases and using chemical herbicides to manage weeds. Runoff from these conventional farms washes into rivers, lakes, and streams thus contaminating our waterways and destroying many habitats. These pesticides are toxins to our health and link to respiratory problems, neurological disorders such as Parkinson's disease, cancer and reproductive problems. Organic farmers use beneficial insects and birds, mating disruption, or traps to reduce pests and disease. They also rotate crops, till, hand weed, or mulch to manage weeds. Conventional farms give animals antibiotics growth hormones and medications to prevent disease and spur growth then we put this into our bodies...I think it's gross! Conventional farms usually do not let the animals outside, instead they are enclosed in a space too small to fit all of them. Organic farms give animals organic feed and allow them access to the outdoors. They use preventative measures such as rotational grazing, a balanced diet, and clean housing to help minimize disease. Next time you are at the grocery store, take time to think about the food you want to put in your body and it's effect on the environment!