Michigan State University is hosting the first World Congress on Organic Food this week. Agricultural experts are exploring food safety issues.
They say organic food often has nutritional benefits and environmental benefits versus conventionally grown produce. Here in the United States, organic food brings in more than $9 billion a year.
Scientists at the conference say there is a need for more research on organic food, the benefits of not using pesticides or herbicides, and meeting specific soil requirements.
Here in Michigan, more than 200 farms are certified organic. Giving Tree Farm in DeWitt has been growing organic food since 1997. The farm maintains a Community Supported Agriculture program. Area residents can buy produce from the farm for six months out of the year, picking up a variety of fruits and vegetables on Friday. For more information, call Giving Tree Farm at 517.482.8885.
