Under the Organic Foods Act, which type of pesticides are allowed?

The Organic Foods Act permits the use of pesticides derived from biological origins, which aligns with the foundational principles of organic farming. These pesticides, often referred to as "biopesticides," are typically made from natural substances such as plant extracts, microorganisms, or even beneficial insects. The rationale behind allowing these substances is that they are generally considered to be less harmful to the environment and human health when compared to synthetic pesticides.

In contrast, synthetic chemical pesticides, which are artificially manufactured, would not meet the criteria established by the Organic Foods Act, as the act is designed to promote organic farming practices that restrict the use of synthetic inputs. Moreover, mineral-based pesticides, while sometimes allowable in some organic systems, do not encompass the broader category of biological-derived pesticides that the act specifically supports. Finally, pesticides that contain no natural components are also not permitted under organic standards, as they typically involve synthetic materials that contradict the organic ethos. Hence, the allowance for pesticides derived from biological origins is a key aspect of maintaining organic integrity in agricultural practices.