Agriculture:
It's Certifiable


HUDS takes environmentalism seriously, and we recognize the benefits that organic farming brings to the land. Organic farming is done without pesticides, herbicides, or many other chemicals, in an effort to better integrate farming into natural processes. Today, many farmers are realizing that these methods help the health of the soil, and in turn, the health of the plants and other living beings in the environment.

Non-use of chemicals, however, is not enough to earn an organic label. There are strict standards, regulated by the USDA, that govern the labeling procedure for organically grown products. From a three-year waiting period to use of compost, the National Organic Program covers nearly every aspect of production. Let's just say it's complicated. (The governing document is 554 pages long.)

Products labeled "USDA Organic" must comply with these regulations, but they are prohibitive for many smaller farmers. These producers will often farm in ways that work with natural processes and without chemicals, but they remain uncertified. So don't think any less of that vendor at the farmers' market who calls himself "Organic—not certified."

HUDS brings you a number of organic products on a daily basis.