While organic, “green” products are increasingly attractive to customers, it’s important to know what the different terms actually mean.

Organic. According to the USDA, organic meat, poultry, eggs and dairy products come from animals that are given no antibiotics or growth hormones. Before a product can be labeled “organic,” a government-approved certifier inspects the farm where the food is grown to make sure the farmer is following all the rules necessary to meet USDA organic standards. Companies that handle or process organic food before it gets to a supermarket or restaurant must be certified as well.

Natural. Contains no artificial ingredients and is only minimally processed (i.e., a process which does not fundamentally alter the raw product), according to the USDA. The label must explain the use of the term natural (such as no added colorings or artificial ingredients; minimally processed).

Sustainable. A philosophy rather than a labeling standard, which encourages food being produced using methods that are healthy, do not harm the environment, are humane to animals, respect workers, provide fair wages to farmers and support farming communities.