By Stephanie Solis Featured in our September 13th Print Edition
Organic vs. Conventional: Unveiling the Truth
The word “organic” has garnered significant attention over the years. When you spot it at the grocery store, not only can you expect a higher price point, but you are also investing in higher-quality food, right? Is that not what “organic” implies? Here’s what I discovered…
The Organic Trade Association (OTA): Guardians of Organic Standards
The Organic Trade Association (OTA) is a prominent organization that encompasses all products and agriculture in North America. They are the leading voice in matters concerning the organic label within the United States. They are at the forefront of ensuring that the USDA organic label standards are maintained. These standards necessitate that products bearing the label must be cultivated and processed without the use of toxic and synthetic fertilizers or pesticides, genetic engineering, antibiotics, synthetic growth hormones, artificial flavors, colors, preservatives, sewage sludge, or irradiation. Produce can only be labeled as organic if it has grown in or on soil that has been free of pesticides and synthetic fertilizers for three years. These farms undergo scheduled and unscheduled certification inspections by third-party inspectors to ensure full compliance with label standards.
The Health Implications of Organic Choices
Why should we opt for organic food? Studies have demonstrated that as farming practices have evolved, public health has deteriorated. Pesticides and fertilizers can contaminate soil, water, turf, and other vegetation. Once they enter our system, they begin to harm our organs: lungs become scarred, and our liver, kidneys, and heart start to deteriorate. This renders us more susceptible to various long-term diseases and ailments, including Parkinson’s, asthma, depression, anxiety, and cancer, including leukemia and non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma, prostate, and brain cancer.
Cost Considerations: Is Organic Worth the Price?
So, indeed, you might concur that consuming organic foods is beneficial for your overall health. At the grocery store, anticipate a 21% increase in your bill if you opt for all-organic purchases. One basic guideline to follow is that organic should only cost approximately $1 more per pound than non-organic. There are no regulations governing how much a store can charge for organic products. Allow me to introduce you to a list known as the “Dirty Dozen,” which comprises the most contaminated fruits and vegetables. In other words, when you buy any food from this list, PLEASE try to choose organic.
The Dirty Dozen: Fruits and Vegetables to Prioritize Organic
- Strawberries
- Spinach
- Kale, collard, and mustard greens
- Peaches
- Pears
- Nectarines
- Apples
- Grapes
- Bell and hot peppers
- Cherries
- Blueberries
- Green Beans
The Clean Fifteen: Safe Choices for Non-Organic Shopping
And here’s another list for you—the “Clean Fifteen.” These are fruits and vegetables with the lowest amount of harmful residue. In other words, you don’t necessarily need to buy organic when shopping for items on this list.
Clean Fifteen: Fruits and Vegetables with Minimal Residue
- Avocados
- Sweet corn
- Pineapple
- Onions
- Papaya
- Sweet peas (frozen)
- Asparagus
- Honeydew melon
- Kiwi
- Cabbage
- Mushrooms
- Mangoes
- Sweet Potatoes
- Watermelon
- Carrots
Organic vs. Grass-Fed Meats: A Closer Look
Although this article doesn’t delve deeply into the organic vs. grass-fed meat debate (which is better?), it’s essential to note that the USDA organic label adheres to strict guidelines for all meats. In my opinion, organic is the superior choice because the entire farming process (from seed and soil to plate) undergoes rigorous scrutiny, as explained above. Consuming organic food reduces the risk of organ damage and disease. It not only extends your lifespan but also enhances its quality. Remember, YOU are worth it!
