To me, "Organic" is nothing more than a marketing term, and is so outdated, the term is irrelevant. Today's farmers are astute, and do their best to produce quality produce, be it fruit, vegetables or meat. Most are concerned about sustainability, taste and quality. To me, the main concern is what pesticides have been used on the produce. Pesticides and their residue should be our concern, hence the use of "pesticide free" or "minimal spray" is to my preference. This is a lot more relevant than the use of animal dung as fertiliser. Plants will take from the soil (or growing medium) exactly what they need, and will not choose nitrogen from an animal, over that provided in "chemical" form. Chemical fertilisers are nothing more than purified minerals which are natural in the first place. In Organic farming, the micro nutrients are permitted from a chemical source, so the reasoning that NKP cannot, is flawed. The problem with organic fertilisers sourced from animals is the possible presence of e coli bacteria. I have done a lot of gardening and tried many methods. In the end, organic did not provide the best product or taste. Sometimes, pesticides must be used due to the location and presence of pests. Overall, we are better off supporting local farmers, and buying as fresh as possible. In regards to taste, quality heirloom varieties tend to be more flavoursome than the ones requested by the Major supermarkets. I try to buy as much as possible from local markets, or fruit and veg stores. The supermarkets in general have very poor offerings and tend to be more expensive. I look at the produce, and do not care if it is organic.
