Organic foods were once found only in specialty grocery stores, but they are now widely available in specialty and conventional grocery stores alike. In fact, the organic food market, which was at $1 billion in 1990, has grown to a staggering $286 billion market in 2010 (Organic Trade Association, 2011).

Clearly the popularity of organic foods has skyrocketed over the past few decades, but the debate remains as to whether organic foods are really worth the often higher price in comparison with conventional foods. With this in mind, along with outside research, answer the following questions.

What does the label of "organic" mean? What types of foods can be produced organically? Do organic foods carry any special risks for interactions with medications?

What are the advantages and disadvantages of consuming organic food? Is organic food healthier than conventional food? Why or why not?

Do you choose to purchase and consume organic food? Why or why not?

If organic food was not more expensive than conventional food, would you choose to consume it in lieu of conventional food?