Should You Eat Organic?

Should you or shouldn't you??
In recent years, eating organic has become more popular and more widespread. There has been an increase in organic products and more availability in organic produce and meat products. However, there are also controversies over what foods we should be eating organic, and whether or not eating organic is really that much better for us than non-organic foods. Not to mention, eating organic tends to be more expensive, so is it worth the extra money?

What Does Organic Mean?

• Foods that are grown without pesticides, growth hormone, synthetic fertilizers or antibiotics. 
• Reduce pollution and encourage water and soil conservation by using crop rotation and natural fertilizers. 
• In order for a food to be labeled "organic", it must at least 95 percent  organic.

What Foods Should be Organic?

• Each year, a "Dirty Dozen" list is put out by the Environmental Working Group of fruits and vegetables that are healthier when eaten organically
• The 2016 list is not yet available, but the 2016 list includes: apples, strawberries, nectarines, peaches, grapes, celery, spinach, sweet bell peppers, cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, snap peas and potatoes.
• This list includes produce products with the highest level of pesticides

Are Organic Foods Healthier?

• Free of pesticides, which have been linked to pediatric cancer, decreased cognititve function and behavioral problems.
• More fresh and nutritious when bought from your local farms and farmers markets. The longer fruits and vegetables sit in the store, the more nutrients they lose.
• GMO-free: genetically modified organisms which often contain soy, wheat and corn. So, it is recommended that when products are not GMO-free, that we buy organic.
• Meat is richer in certain nutrients, such as Omega-3 fatty acids. Organic, grass-fed cows have a better fatty-acid profile than non-organic.
• NO growth hormones, antibiotics or animal byproducts 

Eating Organic on a Budget

• Shop at your local farmer's market
• Eat local and seasonal ingredients
• Buy just what you think you will need/eat for one week, as organic produce spoils quicker
• Buy from discount stores
• Buy from the bulk bins

Stay educated in order to keep you and your family healthier and away from chemicals in your food