What is Organic?

What is Organic? Organic foods are grown without the use of chemical fertilizer or pesticides and have not been processed using irradiation or added hormones.

Products labeled "100 percent organic" must contain only organic ingredients with the exception of water and salt, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture.

Products labeled "organic" must contain at least 95 percent organic ingredients.

Products that are made with at least 70 percent organic ingredients are allowed to be labeled "made with organic ingredients."

The problem is, organic food can cost 2 to 3 times other produce that are not "organic". In a study published recently, (Journal of the Science of Food and Agriculture), it was demonstrated that nutritionally, as far as organic vs. inorganic is concerned, there is very little difference!

Considering the investment, we should be careful with foods that absorb pesticides. The following is a listing of fruits and vegetables that should be organic to avoid the chemicals: Apples, Celery, Cherries, Grapes (imported), Lettuce, Nectarines, Peaches, Pears, Strawberries, and Sweet Bell Peppers.

The following are pesticide resistant fruits and vegetables not necessarily "essential" to buy organic (although I'd prefer the organic, fresh choice when possible): Asparagus, Avocados, Bananas, Broccoli, Mango, Kiwi, Cabbage, Onions, Papaya, and Pineapple.

If your budget doesn't allow 100% organic, you can at least understand the true definition, and the foods that are more, and less vulnerable to contamination.