Organic

There has been an ongoing interest in Organic vs. commercial foods. This interest peaks whenever there is an ecoli outbreak. Consequently I am frequently asked to explain why my family and I choose to eat organic whenever we can. I will reiterate what I wrote in a newsletter two years ago as it still applies.

I have been responsible for the health of my two grandsons, daughter and husband as we shared a house together until recently. My daughter and grandson Winston, who is 6 years of age, are allergic to tomatoes and strawberries. They both break out in a rash when they eat just a few. They are able to eat as many organic strawberries and tomatoes as they want, no rashes. We believe it is the pesticides that they are allergic to. Neither grandson has been to a doctor, had antibiotics or vaccinations in their lives. They were both born at home with a midwife. I believe taking pesticides, hormones, antibiotics and additives out of their food has given them a healthy start on life and added the blessing of good health for the rest of us.

Natural food sales have been increasing by 26%/year compared to 5%/year for the conventional market. Which is why all markets now have a natural foods section. Because of the recent interest in organic foods there has been a sudden increase in companies offering these products. This is good and bad. Good because they are more available and bad because of the confusing labeling.  Some companies just want the word Organic on their product to make it sound healthy. Here is an explanation of common terms used in labeling.

Organic - any product that was grown or created without the use of chemical pesticides, fertilizer, hormones, antibiotics, or artificially-derived chemical additives. Organic plant products do not allow for genetic engineering or the use of radiation. Organic wines do not have added sulfites, only naturally-occurring, trace amounts. (Wines from Europe are, by nature, organic). When the term "organic" is found on food products, at least 95% of the product uses organic ingredients.

Certified organic - Labeling used with organic products which have met the following standards: 1) the land on which organic food or fibers (e.g. cotton) are grown must be free of chemical additives/pesticides for three years prior to being certified; 2) farmers and processors must keep detailed records of methods and materials used in the production process, particularly those which replenish soil fertility; 3) all methods and materials are inspected annually by a third-party certifying agency (under the jurisdiction of the USDA); 4) as indicated above, products must be free of chemical additives, such as pesticides, chemical fertilizers, hormones, and antibiotics.

Made with organic ingredients – Must contain at least 70% organic ingredients. Does not contain any added sulfites.

100% organic – These products cannot contain any non-organic ingredients.

Using only organic foods in our houses is a personal choice after a great deal of research and thought. It is a difficult choice because you have to read every label, know the companies you are buying from and in general stay on top of what is going on in the organic market place. It fits our lifestyle.

If you have further interest in the subject here are a couple of links you may be interested in.

www.organic-nature-news.com     The organic terms above came from this website.

www.organicconsumers.org    They have a great newsletter.

www.obpeoplesfood.coop   Food co-op in Ocean Beach. Large, beautiful store. All organic produce.

www.jimbos.com   Local family owned stores in Del Mar, Carlsbad, Escondido & 4S Ranch.  Organic and natural foods.