Organic food differs from conventional food in the way it is produced and processes. Thus, in the production of organic food the usage of fertilizers and pesticides is restricted.
Organic food presents products of farming during the production of which is avoided the usage man-made fertilizers, pesticides, feed additives, growth regulators, etc. Instead, farmers use methods such as rotation of crops, animal and plant manures, hand weeding and biological pest control.
Synonyms of organic food are bio-food and eco-food.
The only difference between organic and conventional food is the process of production. Organic foods are produced in compliance with the laws on organic production. Organic foods are not absolutely free of pesticides, but in their production the usage of other chemicals that are traditionally used in the production of conventional foods is not allowed.
Manure is among thee most frequently used fertilizers in the production of organic food. Farmyard manure is used in the traditional agricultural methods, too.
No matter whether food is produced organically or in the conventional way, the usage of pesticides and fertilizers should be properly controlled and managed in order to be reduces the risk of potential contamination of the agricultural products with pathogens. These pathogens include harmful bacteria and especially E. coli 0157). Also, care should be taken that ground and surface waters are also not contaminated.
Scientific researches have not proved for sure that organic food is safer and more nutritious than conventional food.