Talking About Green

Making the switch to organic consumables can come with a lot of misgivings.  For starters, there are plenty of myths floating around that you will have to debunk before you can implement a toxin-free diet, such as the ever-popular “organic foods are diseased” fabrication that is no doubt propagated by the food industry at large.  In truth, companies that wish to market their wares as organic must submit to strict governmental regulations.  Then there is the idea that these types of produce are far more expensive than alternatives.  Like most consumer purchases, what you spend is largely based on how you go about shopping (from price comparisons to cutting coupons).  Finally, people seem to think that organic goods are mostly unattainable and that they will never be able to find the foods they love in the organics aisle.  This, too, is untrue to a fair degree.

For starters, organic foods are a lot healthier than those that are grown and raised with harmful additives like pesticides, herbicides, insecticides, fertilizers, hormones, and antibiotics.  The chemicals used in our food supply lead to a number of negative results.  Widespread pollution can poison and alter plants and animals while chemicals used on crops invade our bodily fat stores, to do who-knows what kind of damage down the road (not to mention hormones and antibiotics injected into the meats we eat that may lead to disastrous changes in our bodies).  And while there is certainly a risk of crop contamination from insects, or illness amongst livestock, these types of problems persist even with the use of chemicals, so why risk both?

As for which products make it to the shelves at the supermarket, the USDA enforces very strict guidelines for manufacturers who wish to carry their Certified Organic label.  There are a number of options when it comes to obtaining certification, but rigorous standards ensure that the foods you eat are as toxin-free as possible.  You will have to learn to read the labels, though.  For example, a USDA label that simply reads “Organic” signifies that the product is at least 95% organic whereas one that reads “100% Organic” delivers on that promise.  If you see foods that claim to be organic or “natural” but bear no label, do not be fooled.

When it comes to prices and availability, the myths have a foundation in fact.  Up until even a few years ago organic products were not widely demanded, causing there to be a definite shortage of options and a fairly significant hike in prices as compared to other brands.  However, the push to go green and adopt a healthier lifestyle has changed the landscape of the American diet.  While you may not find everything you want in a toxin-free state, and you might still pay a little more for certain items, the market is improving and expanding every day to feature new brands, new foods, and all at less expense.  Just be aware that the only way to completely ensure organic produce is to grow it yourself, but short of tilling your backyard, it’s not too hard to get your hands on foods that are healthier for you and the environment.

Sarah Danielson writes for Online Schools where you can find the top ranked online colleges and a variety of online education programs to fit your needs.

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