Book excerpt: This textbook provides students with a comprehensive introduction to organic food and farming. Janet Chrzan, Jacqueline A Ricotta, and contributors explain organic food and organic farming principles; the history of organics; how organic food is grown, distributed, and consumes; the nutritional benefits; and the social and cultural meanings attached to the concept "organic". An engaging introduction to organic agriculture, this book is essential reading for those interested in food studies, sustainable agriculture, food security, environmental studies, nutrition, and health.--COVER.