Both apples are firm, shiny and red. They provide vitamins and fiber, free of fat, sodium, and cholesterol. You’re now standing in a dilemma in front of the produce section as time continues to tick, since you have so much of it to waste, right? Your considerations include that the conventionally grown apple costs less and is a proven family favorite. However, the organic apple has a label that says “USDA Organic.” What does that mean: Better? Safer? More nutritious? Great questions and we will dive into some of the answers.
The term “organic” refers to the way farmers grow and process agricultural products, such as fruits, vegetables, grains, dairy products and meat. These farming practices are designed to encourage pollution reduction, soil and water conservation. There is no use of traditional fertilizers to control weeds or prevent livestock disease. Organic farmers apply natural fertilizers, use beneficial insects and birds to reduce pests and disease, rotate crops, till, hand weed/mulch, give animals organic feed and allow to the outdoors.
Organic or not? To find out check the label and look for the USDA Organic seal. This label means it’s produced and processed according to the USDA standards and that at least 95% of the food’s ingredients are organically produced.
- 100% organic: products that are completely organic or made of all organic ingredients
- Organic: products that are at least 95% organic
- Made with organic ingredients: these are products that contain at least 70% organic ingredients. The seal can’t be used.
Consider these important factors when making the best decision for your family:
- Nutrition. No conclusive evidence shows that organic food is more nutritious and the USDA doesn’t claim that these products are safer or more nutritious.
- Quality and appearance. Organic foods meet the same quality and safety standards as conventional foods. The difference lies in how the food is produced, processed, and handled. You may find Organic foods spoil faster, because they’re not treated with waxes or preservatives. Also, expect odd shapes, varying colors and perhaps smaller sizes.
- Pesticides. Most experts agree that the amount of pesticides found on fruits and vegetables poses a very small health risk.
- Environment. Organic practices do help benefit the environment by reducing pollution and conserving water and soil.
- Cost. Most organic food costs more. Higher prices are due to more expensive farming practices, tighter government regulation, lower crop yields, and more labor intensive.
- Taste. This is subjective and a personal consideration, so decide for yourself.
Buying Tips:
- Buy fruits and vegetables in season to ensure the highest quality. Ask your grocer what day new produce arrives.
- Read food labels carefully. Some organic products may still be high in sugar, salt, fat or calories.
- Don’t confuse natural foods with organic foods. Only those products with the “USDA Organic” seal have met standards.
- Wash ALL fresh fruits and vegetables thoroughly with running water to reduce the amount of dirt and bacteria.
- If you’re concerned about pesticides, peel your fruits and vegetables and trim outer leaves of leafy vegetables in addition to washing.
Posted on
Mon, June 8, 2009
by Amy Campbell
filed under