Now more than ever there is a tremendous focus on health. Having a healthy diet can prevent not only obesity but also reduce the risk for many diseases such as: high blood pressure, cardiovascular disease and certain cancers. Changing your diet to include more fruits and vegetables, lean protein, whole grains and low fat dairy can be challenging. Add to the mix “organic” products, which have been growing at a steady pace of 20% annually and this can create confusion and decision overload for consumers.
What are organic foods? Organic food is produced by farmers who emphasize the use of renewable resources and the conservation of soil and water to enhance environmental quality for future generations. Organic meat, poultry and dairy products come from animals that are given no antibiotics or growth hormones. Organic produce is grown without using conventional pesticides or fertilizers made with synthetic materials, sewage sludge or ionizing radiation.
Are organic foods healthier for me and my family? There is an ongoing debate on whether organic foods are more nutritious than conventionally produced foods. From studies that have been done, there is not a statistically significant difference in the nutrient quality of organic vs. traditional foods. Organic foods tend to be more expensive due in part to their smaller production scale and higher labor costs. Whether you are single or feeding a family of 4, it may come down to a financial decision rather than a nutrition one if organic products are right for you.
Some conventionally grown fruits and vegetables have been shown to contain high levels of pesticides even after being washed. Below is a list of the 10 fruits and vegetables that contain the highest levels of pesticides – ones you may consider purchasing organic, should you decide.
- Peaches and Nectarines
- Apples
- Bell Peppers
- Celery
- Strawberries
- Cherries
- Lettuce and Spinach
- Imported Grapes
- Pears
- Potatoes
Not all foods need to be purchased organic. There is no difference in safety or nutrient value in packaged or processed foods such as chips, pasta, cereal, oil and canned foods between organic and non-organic versions.
Labeling of organic products. In order to assure consumers that what they are buying is indeed organic the USDA’s National Organic Program was established in October of 2002. Farms etc. are inspected and are required to meet organic production and handling guidelines in order to be certified “USDA Organic.” Look for the USDA Organic seal shown below on products that are at least 95% organic to make sure you are getting a truly organic product.