The word organic has a number of associated connotations. The definition cannot be limited to a particular area of ​​study; in fact, the word “organic” extends to a broader range of areas where it can be applied. The basic definition, however, remains the same because the derivation of the meaning of the word is unanimously universal. Organic is derived from or related to living organisms. In the simplest sense of the word, organic is simply organic matter obtained from the use of living organisms.

Anything that involves the use of fertilizers or pesticides that are obtained strictly and solely from animal or vegetable origin are organic in nature.

Raised or carried out without the use of drugs, hormones or synthetic chemicals, the products are considered to be organic in nature, for example organic livestock. People’s lifestyle can also be organic if it is close to nature or simple and healthy. Organic farming is described as an ecologically balanced approach to farming that does not rely on artificial means to produce products. It is basically not treated with any kind of chemicals or at most the minimal amounts of chemicals are used. It is generally believed that foods that are organic contain no artificial additives and are processed with the least use of artificial methods.

Surveys and studies have revealed the environmental effects of organic farming and the consensus among these surveys is that organic farming is less harmful for the following reasons:

1 – Organic farms do not consume or release synthetic pesticides into the environment, which can be harmful to soil and aquatic life.

2 – They are capable of maintaining a diverse and balanced ecosystem.

3- Use less energy and produce less waste.

4 – Add fertility to the soil

5 – Provides an increase in the natural resistance of plants and animals against diseases by promoting the flourishing of the number of natural organisms.

Aside from benefiting the environment, organic farming is also credited with increasing yields. However, there are certain critics who refute it by stating that organic agriculture can feed a meager number of people compared to the world population and that too after the destruction of ecosystems and excessive waste of resources. A rebuttal to this statement shows that the materials needed for organic farming are more accessible than those used in conventional farming, and therefore organic methods could produce enough food to support the world’s population. The fact is that organic farming can benefit yields in some countries while it may not in others, depending on how developed a country is and obviously due to the availability of materials needed in organic farming. Studies also reveal that organic farming is more energy efficient.

Also, organic produce is known to have more nutrients compared to conventionally grown produce. Since the quality of the soil improves as a result of organic farming, a better taste is also attributed to organic products for this reason.

As stated above, organic products are further enhanced and provide many benefits to consumers. In general, all organic products have similar characteristics. All of these products are free from the use of synthetic chemicals and are extremely original in nature. Organic products are generally more expensive, and higher demand for these products is directly related to higher income. A number of other factors determine the demand for organic products and the need for an organic lifestyle. The propensity to buy organic products has been linked to people’s concern about external or direct personal effects of their use.