are foods that do not contain artificial ingredients and are minimally processed. They are usually more nutritious than refined foods. Natural foods do not include ingredients such as refined sugars, refined flours, milled grains, hydrogenated oils, artificial sweeteners, artificial food colors, or artificial flavorings.

Organic refers to the way agricultural foods and fibers are produced and processed. It is a commitment to agricultural practices that strive for a balance with nature, using methods and materials that are of low impact to the environment. The primary goal of organic farming is to optimize the health and productivity of interdependent communities of soil life, plants, animals and people.

"Certified Organic" means the item has been grown according to strict uniform standards that are verified by independent state or private organizations. Certification includes inspections of farm fields and processing facilities, detailed record keeping, and periodic testing of soil and water to ensure that growers and handlers are meeting the standards which have been set.

The USDA allows for three categories of labeling organic products:

Made with 100% organic ingredients

Made with at least 95% organic ingredients, with strict restrictions on the remaining 5% including no GMOs

Made with a minimum of 70% organic ingredients with strict restrictions on the remaining 30% including no GMOs

Products with less than 70 percent organic ingredients may list specific organically produced ingredients on the side panel of the package, but may not make any organic claims on the front of the package.

Any product labeled as organic in the US, must contain a minimum of 95% organic ingredients produced to the US National Organic Standards, and be verified, inspected and certified by independent state or private organizations that have been accredited by the USDA. Any product with the USDA seal must be a minimum of 95% organic