Foodie phrases

As with any specialized market, there is a unique language in the world of organic food and farming. The following is a list of jargon for future reference. New terms will be added as they come up.


CSA (Community Supported Agriculture): Programs designed to eliminate the “middle man” and directly involve consumers in the wellbeing of a farm. Typically, consumers buy a “share” in the farm and are paid back in coupons or produce direct from the farm.
Green Revolution:  A term coined in 1968 by former USAID Director William Guad. Used to describe the increased awareness of environmental and health issues.
Local: A term used to define produce that has traveled less than 400 miles.
Organic: A term used to goods using farming, production and packaging methods that do not involve synthetics, including pesticides, chemical fertilizers, additives, and are not genetically modified. The USDA and the National Organic Program have a formal process—outlined on their website—of endorsing farms and products as “certified organic.”
Traditionally grown: A term used to describe farming methods which are comparable to organic methods, but lack proper certification.