Okay, maybe not everything, but I will share what I know.

Organic. It’s the new buzzword. We hear it in commercials, see it in stores, and associate it with our health-conscious friends. What is this organic movement all about? Let’s explore…

What does “organic” mean?

For our purposes, let’s look at organic as it is applied to plant-based foods: fruits and vegetables. Organic produce is grown without chemicals, including pesticides, fertilizers, and fungicides. Organic farmers use a holistic, ecologically sound system for growing food.

What’s wrong with using pesticides? I don’t want worms in my apples!

Pesticide use has been linked to numerous medical conditions, including genetic mutations, nerve damage, respiratory problems and birth defects. Many of the chemicals used by conventional (non-organic) farmers are known carcinogens.

Organic farmers apply centuries-old techniques for keeping bugs away, like crop rotation and planting herbs which are natural insect repellants.

Are there health benefits to eating organic produce?

Yes, studies have shown that organic fruits and vegetables retain more vitamins and minerals than conventionally-grown foods, because the biodiversity of the soil remains intact. Also, organic produce has been shown to promote cellular health, combating the adverse effects of chemicals in our environment.

How do I know if a fruit or vegetable is certified organic?

It always helps to look for the sign that says “organic”. Tried that already? Well, all certified organic produce has five numbers on the PLU code with the first number starting with 9. (See below.) Conventional produce only has four numbers on the PLU code.

Does all produce have to be certified to be organic?

Yes and no. In order to obtain the USDA organic label, farmers and growers must complete a fairly complex, expensive certification process to ensure their compliance with the standards.  However, many small and local farmers grow their crops organically, but they just do not have the certification. For instance, many of the farmers in our area are not organically certified, but they do not use chemicals or synthetic substances on their land. When in doubt, ask your local farmers about their practices or go take a field trip to see for yourself.

Organic produce is more expensive than its conventional counterparts. I can’t afford to eat that way all the time!

You may find this post helpful, with tips for eating healthy on a budget. Next, take a look at the Shopper’s Guide to Pesticides from the Environmental Working Group. It lists the “Dirty Dozen,” foods that you must buy organic because of the high rate of pesticides and the “Clean 15,” foods with the lowest rates of pesticides.

The label on my cereal/shampoo/lotion claims the product is organic. Is that true?

For more information on what the product labels really mean, you can go to Consumer Reports’ Eco-labels Center here.

Share your knowledge! Feel free to forward this post to your family and friends. Happy eating!