Insights for a healthier planet

Ever wondered about the real meaning of "organic" on your food labels? Our articles dive deep into certifications, standards, and what it takes for businesses and farms to earn this designation. Understand the difference and make informed choices for your health and the environment.

A BRIEF HISTORY OF THE EVOLUTION OF ORGANICS  6/15/26

   Organic in its heyday truly was as it implied; free from chemicals, and added pesticides. Stringent rules were applied so this was absolutely true, to obtain the certification. Mandating a certain distance from non organic farms, no part of the growing process or feed could be non organic. 

Over time, as the label grew into the corporate realm, some of the ecological meaning behind organic lost its place. The idea in its infancy was to improve soil structure, build healthier food supply chains, and raise awareness around the potential health and environmental damage of pesticide use. 

Over time farming advocates in the US and abroad developed other certifications that addressed a more holistic picture of what organic was suppose to represent, adhering to the true meaning of sustainability, which adheres to human, ecological, and financial strength. Biological principles with label such as “bio-certified” and now “real organic” certified, address these core principles. Localizing our food systems when possible is an essential part of sustainability. 

As organic became more corporatized and thus monetized, the sustainability element withdrew from its label. The high costs associated with the certification process, was unattainable for many ecologically focused farmers, that didn’t have the funding. Many small farms had to merge with large ones as coops to stay afloat. Many small farms shut down.  As monetization and industrialized operations owned by big companies became mainstream, some of the ecological principles associated with organics declined. 

   Industrializing the organic industry void some of the core principles which fostered ecological integrity. For example, hydroponics can be labeled “organic”, but isn’t restoring soil health. Large industrial farming practices are environmentally destructive, as is the financial element. 

   Due to the changes in administration when Trump was entering office and since, many programs were cut due to over 10$million in annual budget cuts. (Organicinsider.com) Some of the cuts effect fraud, and technology that prevents it. 

   Millions of dollars in funding has been cut from environmental programs which contract with organic farmers. 

+ 85$M Organic Market Development Grant Program- cut

+ 100$M TOPP/ Transition to the Organic Partnership Program