Is it just a fad? Apparently not. Whether out of concern for their health or commitment to the environment, millions of consumers worldwide have made organic an everyday choice. So what is the difference between organically grown and conventionally grown produce?

According an EPA report on conventional pesticides, an estimated 911 million pounds of synthetic pesticides are used on conventional crops throughout the U.S. each year. Now most of these pesticides are used during the early stages of growth, and many crops test negative for pesticide residue by the time they reach the market. However there are some crops that test high in two or more pesticide residues at time of harvest. Crops like spinach and strawberries along with apples, grapes, carrots and winter squash were on the list.

Organic growers use natural soil fertility methods to maintain the right balance of nutrients in the soil to help boost the yield of premium crops. Without the aid of synthetic chemical pesticides and fertilizers, crop rotation is key. Organic growing methods are hands-on practices that require more labor, which contributes to the higher prices on the produce stand. But a true commitment to the practice—and strict standards to regulate it—make this labor of love an all around benefit both to the planet and to consumers.