Why Go Organic? By “Thinking Planet, Drinking Organic” we can help ensure there will be safe food, air, and water both now and for future generations. Below you can learn more about the benefits of going organic. How is organic processing better for the environment? Organic farming is smart farming that builds upon what nature intended. It does not introduce environmentally harmful chemicals or genetically modified organisms into the food chain. And it doesn’t contaminate rain, groundwater and the air we breathe with man-made toxins. By always supplying the ground with healthy, fertile topsoil (rich in biological matter), organic farming minimizes land erosion. This topsoil also supports a system of life that is a vital piece of the Earth’s food chain. What does "organic" mean? Organic agriculture is an ecological production management system that promotes and enhances biodiversity, biological cycles and soil biological activity. It is based on minimal use of off-farm inputs and utilizes management practices that restore, maintain and enhance ecological harmony. "Organic" is a labeling term that denotes products produced under the authority of the U.S. Department of Agriculture's National Organic Program . The principal guidelines for organic production are to use materials and practices that enhance the ecological balance of natural systems and that integrate the parts of the farming system into an ecological whole. What are “organic standards"? In October 2002, the first U.S. National Organic Standards was introduced. To be "certified organic," a grower or processor has been verified that the business meets or exceeds the standards set forth in the USDA National Organic Program. This certification is performed by USDA accredited public or private organizations whose inspectors visit the location regularly. Genetically modified organisms (GMOs), sewage sludge and ionizing radiation (irradiation) are strictly prohibited throughout organic food production. What makes Steaz organic? Steaz uses organically grown cane juice and Ceylon tea, guaranteeing that no harmful chemicals are introduced before the manufacturing process begins. All manufacturing takes place in a 100 year old brewery (located deep in the mountains of Pennsylvania) that has its manufacturing processes certified organic based upon strict USDA and QAI standards. We consider it an honor to have the USDA Organic Seal on our bottles. Are organic foods healthier? Organic foods are NOT grown and processed with potentially harmful long-lasting insecticides, herbicides, fungicides and fertilizers - the EPA considers 60% of all herbicides, 90% of all fungicides, and 30% of all insecticides as potentially cancer-causing. Also, some studies have indicated that there are increased concentrations of vitamins, nutrients and enzymes in organically grown foods. In our opinion, we feel it's important to buy organic products for our families. Do organic farmers ever use pesticides? Organic farmers are “pro-active”, as opposed to “reactive.” By creating a healthy ecosystem healthy plants are better able to resist disease and insects. When pest populations get out of balance, growers will try “natural” solutions like insect predators, mating disruption, traps and barriers. If these fail, the certifier may grant permission to apply botanical or other non-persistent pesticides from the USDA National List of Approved Substances under restricted conditions. Botanicals are derived from plants and are broken down quickly by oxygen and sunlight. Do organic foods taste better? Hmmmm… have you tried our sparkling green teas? We definitely think so! Does organic certification increase the price of Steaz? Our ingredients cost more than conventional beverages as far as growing, harvesting, transportation, and storage. Also we must meet stricter regulations governing all of these steps - the process is often more labor and management intensive. Although we have an added cost of compliance with strict organic certification, we've managed to keep our pricing comparable to other premium beverages. So, for a few cents more, you'll get a significantly better beverage. We think you'll agree it's worth it! How large is the organic foods industry? The Organic Trade Association reports that one to two percent of the U.S. food supply is grown using organic methods and is produced by approximately 7,800 certified organic farmers. Organic food sales have rapidly increased by more than 20 percent annually during the past decade. Some experts predict that organic sales will double by 2007. Where can I find more information about organic foods? A number of resources exist for those who want to obtain more information about organic food products, including: Organic Trade Association Organic Farming Research Association USDA's national organic program The Rodale Institute Florida Crystals