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As organic food is increasing in popularity, many people are left wondering if organic food is right for them. Unfortunately, this can be a complicated subject, and there are strong advocates on both sides of the issue. First of all, it is important to understand what the term “organic” means. Since October 2002, all organic foods must be grown and processed in accordance to strict national standards set by the U.S. Department of Agriculture. To meet these standards, organic crops must “be produced without conventional pesticides (including herbicides), synthetic fertilizers, sewage sludge, bioengineering, or ionizing radiation. Organically raised animals must be given organic feed and kept free of growth hormones and antibiotics. Organic farm animals must have access to the outdoors, including pastureland for grazing.” The terms natural and organic are not interchangeable. Also, terms such as hormone-free and free-range do not mean that a food item is organic.