Buying Organic
The scoop on buying organic
When referring to purchasing food, the term “buying organic” means that the food is grown in safe and healthy soil, using natural fertilizers and are free of synthetic pesticides or additives. In order for a food to be labeled “certified organic,” the land that grew the food must have been pesticide free for at least three years. The lack of chemical pesticides and additives in the soil means that there is also fewer health-harming chemicals in the food we eat. A Consumer Report study found that organic foods consistently had lower amounts of toxic pesticide residues.
Residues from pesticides and chemical fertilizers negatively impact the body because they are man-made and cannot be processed properly by the body. While there is much that is still unknown about the hazards of chemicals used in modern agriculture, common sense tells us that if a chemical is designed to kill living pests, it can’t be all that safe for living humans!
Buying organic products may not always be possible based on availability, cost, or other factors. Here is a list of the top product items to buy organically. If it isn’t possible to buy organic, always wash your fresh produce well with a simple solution that will help remove harmful pesticides from the surface of the food.
Fruit and Veggie Wash
- 1 Tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 2 Tablespoons vinegar
- 1 cup of water
Combine all ingredients in a spray bottle and spray your wash on all of your fruits and vegetables. Then, rinse it off. They are now ready to eat or use in cooking.
