All Aboard the Organic Bandwagon: Is Eating Organic Food Worth the Extra Money?
Organic fruits
Organic is the fastest growing sector of the food industry! We know it’s better to eat more fruits and veggies, but why is it better to eat organic fruits and veggies?
What to Buy
Some studies suggest purchasing all organic fruits and vegetables, because chemical pesticides can be in the whole fruit or vegetable, not just in the skin. If you don’t want to, or can’t afford to buy all organics, take a look at what you eat the most and make that organic.
Why the Higher Price
On average, it takes one to three years for a farm to produce organic produce once they commit to growing organically. The yield from each crop is also lessened due to the stricter growing standards.
Look for Proper Labeling
When buying organic foods, you want to make sure it contains the USDA Organic Certification Seal. Whether grown in the United States or imported from other countries, the U.S. Department of Agriculture has set national standards that food labeled ‘organic’ must meet. Products that contain at least 70% organic ingredients may carry the designation “made with organic ingredients”, but it does not qualify for the seal.
Organic vegetables
Where to Start
Begin by purchasing bananas, carrots, apples, sweet potatoes and citrus fruits because the price comparison to non-organic fruits are very similar. For others, take the time to comparison shop. You can go local and eat seasonally at farmer’s markets and farm stands, like the Newtown Farm Market. For more information on local resources, check out the Greater Cincinnati Nutrition Council.
More local health-oriented merchants:
Culligan
Ohio Valley Pure Water
Tropical Smoothie Cafe
The Spicy Olive
Dr. Vitamins
