What makes food organic instead of all natural?

The terms "organic" and "all natural" are often used interchangeably, but they have different meanings and regulations. Here's the breakdown:

Organic

* Meaning: Organic food is produced without the use of synthetic fertilizers, pesticides, herbicides, or genetically modified organisms (GMOs). Animals raised organically must be fed organic feed and have access to pasture.

* Regulation: Organic food is regulated by the USDA's National Organic Program. There are strict standards that farmers and food processors must meet to be certified organic. This includes inspections and record-keeping to ensure compliance.

* Labeling: The USDA Organic seal is a guarantee that a product meets the organic standards.

All Natural

* Meaning: "All natural" is a less regulated term. It often implies that the food is free from artificial ingredients, preservatives, and additives. However, it doesn't guarantee that the food was produced organically.

* Regulation: There are no federal regulations for the term "all natural." This means a company can label a product "all natural" without meeting any specific standards.

* Labeling: "All natural" is often used as a marketing term, but it doesn't offer the same level of assurance as the USDA Organic seal.

Key Differences:

* Regulation: "Organic" is strictly regulated, while "all natural" has no specific federal standards.

* Production: "Organic" requires specific production methods, while "all natural" does not.

* GMOs: Organic products cannot contain GMOs, while "all natural" products may or may not.

* Transparency: The USDA Organic seal provides consumers with a clear understanding of the product's origin and production methods.

In short, "organic" is a more specific and regulated term that guarantees certain production practices, while "all natural" is a less specific and less regulated term.

If you are looking for food produced without synthetic chemicals and GMOs, choosing organic is the most reliable option.