I have seen vegetables for sale labelled as:

Traditionally grown, Organically grown & Conventionally grown.

What would be the correct interpretation of these 3 terms?

Thanks

Mike

You need to go to one of these sites and look up the terms:

http://www.answers.com

http://www.dictionary.com

http://www.onelook.com

Traditionally grown refers to vegetables that have been cultivated using traditional farming methods, which often involve the use of synthetic pesticides and fertilizers. These methods have been passed down through generations and are not necessarily regulated or certified.

Organically grown refers to vegetables that have been cultivated using organic farming methods. Organic farming relies on natural techniques such as crop rotation, biological pest control, and the use of organic fertilizers. These methods prohibit the use of synthetic chemicals, GMOs (genetically modified organisms), and irradiation. In order to be labelled as organic, vegetables must be produced according to specific standards and be certified by a reputable certification body.

Conventionally grown refers to vegetables that have been cultivated using conventional, mainstream farming methods. This typically involves the use of synthetic pesticides and fertilizers to maximize productivity and control pests. Conventionally grown vegetables may also be genetically modified and can undergo post-harvest practices such as irradiation for preservation purposes.

To correctly interpret these terms when buying vegetables:

1. Traditional: These vegetables may have been grown using traditional methods without regulation or certification. Their quality and safety depend on the individual farmer's practices.

2. Organic: Look for vegetables with an organic certification label, indicating that they have been produced according to specific organic regulations.

3. Conventional: These vegetables are commonly found in most supermarkets but may have been treated with synthetic chemicals. If you prefer to avoid pesticides and fertilizers, you may want to consider choosing organic or locally-grown options.

It's important to note that the interpretation and definition of these terms may vary based on regional and national regulations, so it's always a good idea to familiarize yourself with the specific standards and certifications in your area.