Is organic food actually healthier? Are the benefits worth it? cost? Do you have to eat organic food—or is it a quick fire way to burn a hole in your wallet? Spoiler alert: the answer is nuanced. When it comes to eating organic, a number of factors come into play — i.e. your value, budget, and accessibility. For some people, organic is an integral part of good life and take care of the environment. Others argue that eating organic is too expensive, unnecessary and inaccessible. Somewhere in between lies that we eat organic when we can, but we’re not dogmatic about it.
As you navigate this growing area of the grocery store, it’s important to know what organic means and how to get the most out of your money — for the sake of your wallet. money, your body and the planet.
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What does organic mean?
Let’s start here. Between the nutrition facts, ingredient lists, and (misleading) dietary claims, “organic” is yet another piece of the grocery shopping puzzle. With what for dinner And what’s budget-friendly, you may be wondering how to decide when going free is worth it — and when it’s not. Therefore, knowing what “organic” really means can help you make informed choices! Let organic agricultural products bring certified organic labelthey must meet the following requirements:
- Food cannot be grown with synthetic fertilizers, synthetic pesticides or sewage sludge
- Food is not genetically modified — GMOs are banned
- Animals must eat organic feed, no animal by-products
- Animals cannot be treated with hormones or synthetic antibiotics
- Animals must have access to the outdoors and/or pasture
- Animals cannot be cloned
- Need to maintain specific soil and water quality
A product can be called organic if it is certified to have been grown on soil with no banned substances applied for three years prior to harvest. Prohibited substances include most synthetic fertilizers and pesticides.
In essence, the term “organic” refers to how agricultural products are grown and processed. Regulations vary globally.
What makes pets organic?
For organic meat, animals must be raised in living conditions that mimic the natural behaviors of animals. For example, the ability to graze on pasture, eat organic forage and forage. They don’t offer anything synthetic. They also must not use antibiotics, growth hormones or any animal by-products. Furthermore, organic farmers must use well-rotted manure to improve the nutrient density of the soil.
How Processed Foods Meet USDA Organic Standards
When it comes to processed, multi-ingredient foods, USDA organic standards specify a few things. For example, for your favorite granola bar or box of crackers to indicate “made with organic [specific ingredient or food group],” They must not contain preservatives, artificial colors or flavors. Of course, their ingredients must be organic – with some minor exceptions.
Finally, when packaged products say they are organic, this means they contain at least 70% organically produced ingredients. Remaining non-organic ingredients must be produced without using prohibited methods (e.g. genetic engineering) but may include substances that are not authorized for use in 100% organic products . Learn more about labeling organic foods, here.
Are organic foods really more nutritious?
Short answer: yes. The British Journal of Nutrition found that organic crops had higher concentrations of Antioxidants, lower levels of heavy metals and nitrates, and fewer pesticide residues than non-organic crops. This particular study analyzed 343 peer-reviewed research articles that document the nutritional benefits of organic whole grains, fruits and vegetables. This is by far the most extensive analysis of its kind. Furthermore, another comparison research calculated nutritional content of organic versus conventional cereals and products. Result? The levels of vitamin C, iron, magnesium and phosphorus are higher in organic crops.
Beat the bulk with these organic smoothies!
Eat organic, gain health benefits
While more clinical studies are needed, we know that observational study shows this: increased organic food intake is associated with health benefits. For example, reduce the rate drybirth defects, preeclampsia, metabolic syndrome, high BMI and non-Hodgkin lymphoma. There are also several other key benefits associated with organic farming. Like, improving soil health, reducing exposure to pesticide residues and increasing levels of key micronutrients.
All that said, funding for organic research is – historically – very low. However, research on the benefits of eating organic food continues to grow. USDA funding is expected to grow to $50 million by 2023. And companies like Danone is increasing funding for soil health, regenerative agriculture and organic food. Win win win.
What happens when you eat all organic food?
As mentioned, organic foods often have more beneficial nutrients — such as Antioxidants– compared to their conventionally grown counterparts. Additionally, observational studies show that people with allergies (to foods, chemicals, or preservatives) may find their symptoms lessen when they focus on eating organic. At any rate, eating organic has many benefits:
You consume less pesticides
Chemicals such as synthetic fungicides, herbicides and insecticides are widely used in conventional agriculture. These residues remain on (and in) the food we eat. When you eat organic, you automatically limit yourself exposure to toxins. This is especially important when it comes to grains, as most are sprayed glyphosate.
Your food can taste better
It contains no preservatives which makes it last longer. Organic produce is sometimes produced on smaller farms, closer to where it is sold. This is a win for your fridge and yours taste.
You are supporting the permanence of our environment
Practicing organic farming helps the environment. They reduce pollution, save water, reduce soil erosion, increase soil fertility and use less energy. Farming without synthetic pesticides is also better for the animals that live nearby, as well as the people who live nearby. Buying organic food is one way to become an environmental steward.
You don’t eat antibiotics, growth hormones, etc.
When animals are fed animal by-products, their risk of various diseases increases. In addition, the use of antibiotics can create resistant strains of bacteria. None of this is beneficial for human consumption. In addition to organic, it should be noted that buying herbivorous and livestock provided by livestock pasture add nutritional benefits.
Do I always need to choose organic?
As one Nutrition consultant, my answer is… no! Of course, when possible, buy organic produce. It’s the ultimate choice – for both your health and the health of the planet. However, it is important to note that many organic farmers use (natural) pesticides. At any rate, eating organic doesn’t have to be as expensive or lavish as some people claim. At least, budget to buy these foods Organic. And remember, frozen (organic) produce will almost always be cheaper! Option what’s in season is economic, too. Meat and dairy is another important category to prioritize organic, as well as seed and these four nuts.
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Dirty Dozen: Organic Choice
Annual, Environmental Working Group (EWG), updated their “Dirty Dozen” ingredient list. These are the fruits and vegetables that are most commonly sprayed with pesticides. When possible, buy these organic foods. The list includes strawberries, spinach, greens, nectarines, apples, grapes, etc. Keep in mind though that no washing method is 100% effective at removing all pesticide residue (if you do). choose non-organic products), This washing product Very useful in removing certain chemicals and oils. Also, peeling is not 100% effective because of pesticides maybe Penetrates the flesh underneath of fruits and vegetables. By all means, don’t let this stop you eat your vegetables!
Empowered, fearless
When it comes to what you should eat organically, the power is in your hands. Armed with an understanding of how organic production is grown – and raised – you can make more empowered decisions about what’s on your plate. The goal is not to take a dogmatic approach. After all, eating commonly grown fruits and vegetables is more important than ignoring them altogether.
