Why To Buy Organic?
or·gan·ic - relating to, or obtained from living things.
You see the labelling and advertising for organic products everywhere, and probably wonder; is it really worth it to buy organic? By definition (as you see above), organic could technically cover EVERYTHING, but not everything is truly organic.
When it comes to food, organic refers to those ‘grown or made without the use of artificial chemicals.’ This includes pesticides, herbicides, fertilizers; any artificial additives.
In Canada, to receive the Organic Logo the product must be made of >95% organic ingredients. For those that use the USDA Organic Seal, the following applies:
“100% Organic” - 100% certified organic ingredients
“Organic” - 95% or more certified organic ingredients
“Made with Organic” - 70% or more organic ingredients
At the end of the day, it comes down to personal opinion, choice, and budget; however there are a few points that are important to remember when choosing between organic and non-organic foods. Studies on pesticides and fertilizers have been shown to have a negative impact on the nervous and reproductive system, increasing the instances of cancer, Alzheimers, Parkinsons, infertility and autism in people.
The environmental impact of non-organic farming is also a big concern. The toxic chemicals used creates a negative impact on the surrounding environment for wildlife and people living nearby, as well as for those handling the chemicals first hand, and of course us - the consumers. Organic farming minimizes greenhouse gas emissions and energy usage while reducing contaminated groundwater and protecting water life from a depletion of oxygen.
With the noticeable difference in price between organic and non-organic foods, some people are unable to afford buying all organic groceries. Every year, the Environmental Working Group (EWG) forms a list called the ‘The Dirty Dozen’ which lists the top 12 foods with the highest levels of pesticides. This list can help you choose which foods are the most important to choose organic varieties for if all isn’t feasible.
Listed in order of contamination levels; strawberries, spinach, kale/mustard greens, nectarines, apples, grapes, cherries, peaches, pears, bell/hot peppers, celery, and tomatoes.
Washing produce with a fruit and veggie spray is always a good practice - organic or not. A DIY version of a produce soak is simply distilled water & vinegar. This draws out any dirt or other contaminants as well as removes some of the wax that some produce is coated with.
Buying organic food may seem like a little thing, but when looked at as a bigger picture it will provide benefit to both you and the earth. Slowing down climate change, while nourishing your body to the best of your ability.
with care · b.k