Shop local first
Farmers have been growing organically for centuries. But with the “Green Revolution” of the twentieth century, the use of dangerous pesticides and their proliferation by chemical manufacturers became widespread. The organic movement is growing rapidly in response to consumer demand for safe clean food. In 2001, the USDA created the organic labeling program which mandates that food labeled and marketed as organic meets certain standards.
Local Farmer’s Markets, CSAs, and Farm Direct
The best place to buy your fruits and vegetables is fresh from the field. Farmer’s Markets are seeing a revival all over the country, where small-scale organic growers find a market niche. Another buying option is Community Supported Agriculture, or CSA, where you pay a membership subscription fee (usually once per season) for a weekly box of fresh produce delivered to your door or to a local pick-up location. For more on where to find organic growers, markets and CSAs in your area, visit www.localharvest.org.
Health Food Stores
Health food stores are where most people find their organic food. With several national chains, organic food is now readily available in many US cities. Small-scale cooperative grocers often rely on local farmers for their produce. For more on where to find a health food store in your area, try these websites: www.cooperativegrocer.coop, www.wholefoods.com, www.healthyhighways.com, or www.happycow.net.
Tour d'Organics
OrganicAthlete organizes a series of bicycle rides that feature local organic food and farms. As organic farming enriches the earth, the Tour d’Organics enriches your body, mind, and spirit with a fitness challenge, good company, and fresh locally grown organic food. For more information, visit www.tourdorganics.com.