Conventional produce contains harmful chemicals.

Conventionally-grown fruits and vegetables are covered in a stew of toxic chemicals. Even after rinsing that conventionally-grown pear, there will still be up to 50 poisonous chemicals engrained beneath skin. Blech. Check out the Environmental Working Group's report on the most polluted fruits and vegetables: www.foodnews.org

Let's antagonize for a bit.....so what if there are chemicals in the fruit? That doesn’t mean our bodies actually absorb it....you can get where I’m going with this one, right? www.organic-center.org

And it turns out our kids get it worst! Us grownups can be full of toxins and not be quite as affected (still affected) as a growing kid: more on toxins

There are so many studies on the harmful effects of pesticides. This particular study shows a link between pesticides and autism: pesticides and autism...

It's just plain healthier.

Organic fruits and vegetables are grown in nutrient-rich soil. Vitamins and minerals are kept intact instead of being depleted, as in conventional produce. Studies prove organic produce is more nutritious (read more). Organic milk and meat enhance breast milk nutrition (more info).

What's better for the earth is better for you.

Toxic chemicals are not doing anyone any good, including Mother Earth. While organic farms rely on natural biological systems and actually improve the quality of the soil, chemicals on conventional farms are zapping the soil of any nutrients, deadening the earth. www.organic-center.org

We need to create sustainability.

DEADENING it! Doesn't that word scare anyone else? Supporting organic produce is supporting sustainable, healthy environments that are thriving and full of life, replenishing the earth with nutrients, and continually growing vitamin-rich fruits and veggies.

Environmental conditions are suffering.

By using toxic chemicals and sewage sludge on conventional farms, the falling of dominoes is in full effect; these chemicals get into not only the land (yes-deadening it), but the air and water as well, including groundwater, rivers, lakes and oceans, harming humans and wildlife alike.

It tastes better, too.

Believe it or not, deadening earth does not create the best-tasting peach. Healthy soil creates strong, healthy plants with full juice and flavor. Mmmm.

Ok, fine, organic food sounds a lot better. But just how strict are organic farms?

Oh, pretty strict, alright. Presently, organic farmers and processors are required to comply with extremely rigorous requirements included in the USDA's national organic regulations. These more rigid food standards include restrictions on usage of raw manure to soil; prohibition of pesticide use; prohibition of GMO use; prohibition of food irradiation; prohibition of chemical food processing methods; and plenty others. With the axing of these conventional methods comes careful monitoring, with inspections happening annually to ensure the farm's safe and wholesome food production.

For more information on organic food and certification, visit the USDA web site.