Certified Organic

Certified Organic refers to a farming and production standard overseen by the USDA's National Organic Program. Foods labeled as 'organic' must be produced without most synthetic pesticides, fertilizers, genetically modified organisms (GMOs), or irradiation. The 'certified' part means an independent, USDA-accredited certifier has verified that the farm or business meets these strict standards.

The term 'Certified Organic' is not an ingredient itself but a label indicating how a food or ingredient was grown or processed. It is used by manufacturers to appeal to consumers seeking products produced under organic standards. You will find this label on a wide variety of food products, from produce and grains to processed items like snacks, beverages, and dairy.

The 'Certified Organic' label primarily relates to production methods rather than direct health benefits of the food itself. Some studies suggest organic foods may have slightly higher levels of certain nutrients or antioxidants, but the evidence is mixed and the differences are often small. Regulatory bodies like the FDA do not evaluate 'organic' status as a food additive. The USDA National Organic Program sets the standards for organic certification in the United States.