With so much publicity about the benefits of organic produce, this article represents my observations and opinions on the matter. Just to avoid confusion, I am not referring to the government's standards on "certified organic" when I say organic. I believe organic means locally grown by responsible stewards of the land that avoid the use of artificial herbicides, pesticides, etc.

Organic Produce Tastes Better

This is the number one reason for me. When produce is locally grown you get it only hours from when it is picked. This means that tomatoes are picked red, cucumbers are crisp, and your carrots still have a little dirt on them. In my 15 years of experience with the Southeast Idaho Farmers' Market I have seen hundreds of repeat customers who won't buy from the grocery stores because locally grown produce just tastes better.

Organic Produce Is Healthier

I acknowledge that there is a lot of material out there that both sides of this argument will use to support their point. However, I base my opinion on the fact that people born in the early part of the 20th century, who grew up on farms the better part of their lives, and had access to the improved medical care of the late 20th century continue to amaze me with their longevity and quality of life. They ate bacon from a pig they raised, had potatoes they grew themselves, and cooked the old-fashioned way. I think they had something right and science will eventually confirm that fact.

Final Thoughts

In short, I hope that consumers will be willing to go to their local farmers' markets or roadside vegetable stand to get locally grown, organic produce. If you grow organic produce I wish you the best of luck in marketing and selling your produce so that your talents will spread the benefits of organic produce.