One of the questions I get a lot from clients is whether or not to buy or use organic products.
The label "USDA Organic" is only based on the production or growth of produce or meat and dairy products. In other words, organic foods are foods that are grown without the use of any pesticides, herbacides, GMO (genetically modified organisms), or petroleum-based fertilizers, or live stock that are raised with organic feed and are not given hormones, antibiotics, or steroids and have space to roam freely. The organic label does not determine food quality or safety, or simply how much better, healthier, or safer it is than its conventionally grown foods. For example, if you buy a "USDA Organic" certified strawberry there is no guarantee that it has more vitamins or phytonutrients than the conventionally grown strawberries. Actually, there are few studies that show greater food quality or safety since those studies are so difficult and expensive to conduct. Bottom line, more long-term research will be needed to determine whether organic is "healthier."
Some people shop organic because it's "green" or environmentally sustainable. Although less chemicals, petroleum-based products, hormones and genetically modified organisms are put in our environment, the real issue is that many farmers or ranchers have to spend more time and money growing organic. Organic crop yields are lower, growing organically is not subsidized by the government, and only a small percentage of Americans buy organic. Also, it's a lengthy and expensive process for farmers and growers to seek USDA Certification and there is little oversight or inspection of these foods and products. It is for the most part self-regulated.
With all this said, I believe shopping organic is still a healthier option, however more research is still needed. It does give me a sense that I'm doing something healthy for myself, my environment and the farmers that grow organic. But what organic foods do I recommend buying? I tell people to save money and buy conventional for most produce that have inedible skins or peels. For example, bananas and avocados have a tough outer skin which protect it from many of the chemicals. I also don't buy organic packaged foods like crackers, cereal, or juices because it's just not worth the cost. Lastly, buying organic in this economy is just a little harder to swallow, which is another huge issue for people on tight budgets.
I tell most of my clients to keep it simple. If they really want to go green and eat healthier, I tell them to shop local grocers with produce from sustainable farms. Buy products that are in season vs food shipped from around the world, and only buy organic produce where the skin is edible. As far as meat and live stock, eat less. Animal based proteins (beef, pork, poultry, and fish) require a greater amount of petroleum to grow, produce, and ship. Actually, it is also healthier for you since most of the healthiest people in the world have a 70-80% plant-based diet.
Keep it simple:
- Shop locally
- Buy seasonally
- Buy organic only if you eat the skin
- Freeze extras
- Eat less meat or animal based products
