The word “organic” is seen on many food labels. Let’s dive into understanding the meaning of organic and how it differs from the label “natural.” Keep reading to gather information that could impact your life.
So, let’s start with the big question…
Are Organic Foods Healthier?
Some studies say organic foods might be a bit better for you. They could have more nutrients, good fats called omega-3s, and fewer bad things, like pesticides. We’ll dig in further in just a moment, but I wanted to address something quickly first:
For those who don’t fully understand what organic food is, let me explain:
Organic farming means growing food in a special way to keep the soil and water healthy, prevent pollution, and make sure animals on the farm live in good conditions. They don’t use certain things that more ‘traditional’ growers employ, like artificial fertilizers, sewage sludge, or certain pesticides.
Now, back to the facts:
Organically grown crops tend to have higher levels of antioxidants and certain vitamins. For example, organic berries and corn were found to contain more antioxidants and vitamin C. Organic plants don’t use chemical sprays for protection. Instead, they make more of their own defenses, like antioxidants.
Organic crops also have lower levels of nitrates, which is linked to health risks. Organic dairy and meat may have higher levels of omega-3 fatty acids. However, there’s no clear agreement among studies, and some found no major differences between organic and non-organic foods.
It’s very important to consider that studies on this topic vary so much because of factors like soil quality, weather, and farming practices. Because food production naturally varies, it’s tough to say if organic foods are consistently healthier than regular ones.
Sort of astonishing, I know! A lot of people assumed organic was healthier in all ways. To me, organic is healthier in one special way and that is guaranteeing me a less toxic food. I don’t think some of these articles are looking into the devastation of our health from ingesting pesticides and we all need to push for more information and studies to be published on this topic.
One more thing:
Even if something says “organic,” it doesn’t guarantee it’s full of nutrients. Some organic products, like cookies, chips, sodas, and ice cream, can be processed and have lots of calories, sugar, salt, and fats and still be labeled organic.
Also, it’s important to make another distinction:
Is Organic the Same as Natural?
Nope, they are different. The Food Marketing Institute says “natural” is for foods that are “less processed” and don’t have “fake preservatives”.
The USDA says “organic” means the food is made using approved methods that help nature, conserve biodiversity, and follow strict rules.
Companies can loosely define “natural,” but “organic” has clear rules and a tough certification process. The way organic products are made, processed, and distributed is carefully checked. “ A quick note though is that companies that sell less than $5000 in organic products a year don’t need to go through the same certification. They need to follow the guidelines for organic food production but not the certification process. They can label their products organic but cannot use the seal. There are numerous types of organic labels. 100% organic, organic which must contain 95% organic and Made with Organic and contains organic ingredients. Both of these last two are around 70% organic total.
Here is another question you may have:
Are Organic Foods More Expensive?
Yes. Organic food prices cover more than just the production costs. They include things like protecting the environment, caring for animals better, keeping farmers healthy by avoiding harmful pesticides, and supporting rural communities by providing jobs and fair incomes for those who produce the food.
So, the take away is that we all want clean, non toxic food but most of us don’t want to pay a lot more. So, decide what works for your family. It may also help to shop seasonally; meaning eat the fruit and vegetables when they are ripe not picked and then sitting for months.