Environmental Issues > Health Main Page > All Health Documents

Buy Organic and Certified

Conventional agriculture, which is often dependent on the intensive use of synthetic chemicals such as fertilizer and pesticides, can have a negative impact on air, water and soil quality. Many widely used pesticides have been linked to an increased risk of cancer and reproductive problems.

But there are alternatives to conventional agriculture. Innovative farmers from coast to coast have adopted more sustainable farming systems, reducing the need for synthetic pesticides and fertilizers. By shopping for organic or other sustainably certified foods, you can support their efforts.

The USDA Organic label ensures that a product is not grown with synthetic pesticides and fertilizers, while a variety of other eco-label certifications help consumers choose food grown to address other sustainability concerns.

WHAT YOU CAN DO

• Buy organic and other sustainably certified foods. Visit Consumer Reports to find out what labels to look for.
• For more about pesticides and produce, get advice from NRDC's Simple Steps.
• Read more about choosing organic food in This Green Life.