What to know about buying organic

The production and availability of organic foods is increasing exponentially to keep up with consumer demand. No matter how often you shop or in what type of store you purchase your groceries, you have undoubtedly come across organic products on the shelves.

No longer are eco-conscious shoppers forced to purchase their food in health food stores or other specialty stores, as nearly all larger stores currently carry organic and environmentally-friendly products. Sales of organic food products have risen exponentially in the last decade, with many American families now purchasing organic products one or more times each month.

If the idea of buying organic is new to you, you are likely wondering what all the fuss is about. Are organic foods tastier? Are they safer or healthier than standard products? Most consumers who purchase organic foods testify that they are all of the above. Technically, however, organic foods can only officially be called more natural and eco-friendly.

Organic standards

In order to be labelled as organic, a product must meet the strict standards set in place by the Unites States Department of Agriculture (USDA). Foods labelled as organic cannot be grown using pesticides, fertilizers made with synthetic ingredients, antibiotics, herbicides, hormones, ionizing radiation, or bioengineering. Animal products labelled as organic must be from animals that have been fed only 100% organic feed, have access to the outdoors, and have received no hormones or antibiotics of any kind.

In addition to the strict standards regarding the production of organic food products, farmers who produce organic foods are required to use renewable resources that protect and conserve water and soil. Farmers must become and remain certified by passing inspection by a government-approved certifier, and every company that handles organic products must become certified as well.

Not all products are 100% organic

However, not all foods that contain the word "organic" on their label are 100% organic. Products that state they are made from organic ingredients need only contain 70% organic ingredients, but these items cannot place the organic seal on the packaging.

Other labels may list similar, and often confusing terms, such as "natural," "sustainable," "grass-fed," "free-range," or "fair trade." Although these terms imply the product is environmentally-friendly, they do not necessarily mean the product is organic.

Natural vs. organic vs. sustainable

Natural foods are those that remain as close as possible to their natural, or whole, state. This term typically means that the product contains no artificial preservatives or other ingredients. While some natural foods meet the criteria to be considered organic, many do not.

Sustainable foods are those grown locally using sustainable agricultural methods, such as those production techniques that do not harm the environment, are humane to animals, and support local farmers. Sustainable foods may or may not also be organic, and it is wise to purchase foods that qualify as both sustainable and organic whenever possible.

Because the requirements are minimal to include the terms "cage-free" and "free range" on a product label, most shoppers knowledgeable about organic and eco-friendly foods often pass over these products. The USDA is currently working on new and stricter guidelines for the use of these labels, and current information and requirements can be obtained by contacting the USDA directly.

Join the organic movement

Organic foods are widely available and come in every shape and size, including meats, vegetables, and even chocolate. If you are interested in doing your part to help the environment, an excellent place to begin is by selecting food products that do not harm the environment. And sticking with organic foods can bring many health and wellness benefits as well.