Let’s start by looking at how the U.S. Department of Agriculture defines Organic… On October 21, 2012 the USDA ruled that only foods certified as at least 95 percent organic – will be generally grown without synthetic pesticides, artificial fertilizers, irradiation (a form of radiation used to kill bacteria), or biotechnology (genetically modified organisms aka… Continue reading Organic ~ What does that mean?
If healthier means free from bacterial contamination and other harmful organisms, the answer is no. The USDA makes no claims that organic foods are safer to eat than conventional foods. The Organic Trade Association says organic products are as safe as conventionally produced foods. Because certified organic farmers adhere to strict guidelines for safe and… Continue reading Is Organic Safer and Healthier?
Here’s a rundown of the evidence on contamination levels for organic and conventional products in five categories – milk, produce, meat, eggs and fish – to help you decide whether to buy organic or stick with conventional. Milk: Neither organic nor conventional milk contains antibiotics. By law, every truckload of milk, organic & conventional, is tested… Continue reading Organic ~ An Informed Choice
Is Organic Food More Nutritious? If you really want to stay healthy, you buy organic foods, right? But does an organic label—like the kind found on many fruits, vegetables, meats, milk, and processed foods—mean that the food is actually more nutritious? The answer, probably NOT. The truth, according to numerous research studies done, is that… Continue reading Organic ~ More Nutritious?
Now that we have a basic understanding of organic labeling & guidelines, let’s tackle some of the other misconceptions regarding organic foods; but let’s first give a brief history of organic farming. Many believe that the current rise in organic farming and products; over the past 15 years, stemmed from the necessity of people wanting… Continue reading Organic Farming ~ A Brief History
Since the 1990’s consumer demand has grown by the double-digits every year. Organic sales increased from $3.6 billion in ’97 to over $39 billion in 2014. However, production is not keeping up with demand. Supply shortages are one of the greatest challenges facing the industry today. Despite continued growth in production, handlers are not able… Continue reading Organic ~ Why is it more expensive?
Even if organic foods may not be as nutritional, tastier, safer or healthier; as many of us have grown accustomed to thinking, don’t write them off just yet. They still mean a great deal to the environment and for future generations. Besides, it seems unfair to judge organic crops for failing to do something they… Continue reading Organic ~ Consumer Tips
