The state Department of Agriculture is stepping up inspections of organic farms to ensure customers are getting what they pay for.

Blairstown organic farmer Vicky Race says before she can label her food organic, she needs to prove certain criteria. According to Race, documentation must be provided to prove her fruits and vegetables are certified organic.

Inspectors say consumers can look for a USDA organic sticker to determine if food is truly organic. According to inspectors, that sticker lets customers know someone from the Agriculture Department checked out the farm and made sure it was organic.

The Agriculture Department requires organic farmers to use all organic materials to grow their crops and minimize the use of heavy machinery.

Related Information: Department of Agriculture