ORGANIC IS BEST
IN OUR VERY HUMBLE, BIASED OPINION ;-)
In a world where health and environmental consciousness are on the rise, more and more people are turning to organic foods. Same here; we're on a mission to only offer organic foods!
But what exactly makes organic food stand out? Let's peel back the layers and explore the reasons behind this shift (and why we totally root for it!).
WHAT DOES ORGANIC MEAN?
It all comes down to how your food, whether fresh produce, legumes, grains, eggs, dairy, meat, or processed foods, was made, grown, farmed, or raised.
When something is classified as organic, there is no use of synthetic pesticides, fertilizers, genetically modified organisms (GMOs), antibiotics, growth hormones, or irradiation.
Instead, organic farming relies on natural methods and practices. Producers undergo strict certification that includes field practices, record-keeping, and periodic inspections.
Organic farming isn't just about what happens above ground; it's about nurturing the soil beneath our feet.
Organic farmers are the custodians of soil health, employing techniques like cover cropping and crop rotation to enrich the earth.
By enhancing soil organic matter, they bolster its water retention capacity, mitigating the impacts of droughts and floods.
Improving soil organic matter also helps it absorb and store carbon and other nutrients needed to grow healthy crops, which, in turn, can better resist insects and diseases.
Organic farmers adhere to a national standard prioritizing natural and sustainable practices. All of which we love!
READ MORE: Are non-GMO foods healthier?
BENEFITS OF EATING ORGANIC FOODS
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The perks of going organic extend far beyond mere preference; they're rooted in tangible health and environmental advantages.
Better Quality Food
Organic produce can boast higher concentrations of nutrients and vitamins than its non-organic counterparts.
Meta-analyses show higher iron, magnesium, vitamin C, and lower obesity, BMI, and some cancer risks.
This is due to the absence of chemical interventions that degrade soil and diminish nutritional value. Vitamin and nutrient content are affected when non-organic food is also mass-produced and genetically modified.
Organic foods also have higher levels of phenolic phytonutrients, between 19% and 69% more than non-organic foods. These metabolites of plants are thought to be behind many of the benefits ascribed to eating fruits and vegetables.
Fewer Pesticides
The extensive use of pesticides in conventional farming raises red flags for health risks. A consumer reports analysis found that 20% of U.S. produce had significant pesticide levels—but most organic produce was low-risk.
Glyphosate-based herbicides like Roundup have been classified as a "probable human carcinogen," and insecticides such as chlorpyrifos have been associated with adverse health outcomes, from developmental delays to compromised fertility in men.
Studies have also suggested that pesticide residues—at levels commonly found in the urine of kids in the U.S.—may contribute to ADHD prevalence.
A 2014 meta-analysis in the British Journal of Nutrition found that organically grown crops were not only less likely to contain detectable levels of pesticides, but because of differences in fertilization techniques, they were also 48% less likely to test positive for cadmium. This toxic heavy metal accumulates in the liver and kidneys.
Improved Overall Health
Scientific evidence underscores the health-boosting prowess of organic fare. Studies reveal that consuming predominantly organic, unprocessed foods enhances energy levels, aids digestion, and sharpens mental acuity. By steering clear of chemical residues commonly found in non-organic foods, organic diets prevent the accumulation of harmful elements in the body, safeguarding long-term well-being.
Better for the Planet
Beyond personal health benefits, opting for organic supports environmental sustainability. And isn't that what we all just want? A healthier planet for the generations after us.
Organic farming practices prioritize soil health and biodiversity, fostering ecosystems resilient to climate change. They promote water conservation, soil fertility, and habitat preservation by foregoing chemical inputs and embracing no-till farming, habitat maintenance for beneficial insects and vertebrates, and biological pest control.
CHOOSE ORGANIC WISELY
Organic isn't always healthy
It's essential to know the difference between nutritious options and organic junk food.
Did you know that you can now buy pesticide-free potato chips and organic jelly beans? Yes, it's true! And they are not really healthy items.
Sometimes, people falsely judge organic foods to have fewer calories than conventional foods, and so may eat more. Organic junk food is still junk food.
It also does not mean that if produce is not organic, you should avoid it altogether. Ultimately, any kind of fruit or vegetable, whether organic or not, is still better than not eating it at all. The same goes for legumes and healthy grains.
You should never let concern about pesticides stop you from choosing to eat healthy foods. Even more so from getting the recommended daily 5 servings of fruits and vegetables. That is still the goal.
So Choose Wisely & Eat Well
In the grand scheme of things, whether organic or conventional, prioritizing fruit and vegetables and healthy foods like legumes and grains is still first prize. Although it would be very beneficial to you if you properly rinse your inorganic produce ;-)
While organic foods offer many advantages, they're not the be-all and end-all of health.
So, next time you're at the grocery store, weigh your options thoughtfully and let your plate reflect your commitment to well-being—both personally and for the environment.
We've got a big range of organic foods; from beans to grains, dried fruits, seeds, and nuts, there is something for everyone!
FAQ's
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1. Are organic foods healthier?
Organic foods often contain more antioxidants and beneficial nutrients, and observational studies suggest lower risks of obesity, type 2 diabetes, and some cancers.
While there can be health advantages, findings are limited by study biases or short durations, and evidence is still developing.
2. Can organic food be GMO?
No. Certified organic standards prohibit the use of genetically modified organisms and GM seeds.
3. Can organic food have glyphosate?
Organic foods are grown without synthetic herbicides like glyphosate. That said, trace contamination from environmental drift or processing can occur—but levels are typically far lower than in conventional produce.
4. Is organic food sprayed with pesticides?
Only allowed, naturally derived pesticides approved under organic certification may be used (e.g. certain botanical or mineral-based substances). Synthetic pesticides are prohibited, making overall exposure significantly lower.
5. Does organic mean 100% pure?
Not always. Organic standards allow certain natural or less harmful substances. Also, organic products can still contain naturally occurring contaminants, and organic processed foods may contain sugar, salt, or refined ingredients—so “organic” doesn’t guarantee overall purity or healthfulness.
6. How can I tell if food is really organic?
Look for official certification labels (such as USDA Organic or EU Organic). Farmers’ markets may also have certified producers or small-scale growers who follow organic practices but aren’t certified.
7. Is local the same as organic?
Not necessarily. Local food is grown nearby, but may still use conventional pesticides or fertilizers. Some local farmers do use organic methods, but aren’t certified—so it’s worth asking.
Read more: How local sourcing means fresher, better, and fair-priced food
