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organic label
“Organic” seems to be the trend in foods these days as people search for ways to improve the health of their families. However, organic items are most often more expensive than conventional foods. So, the question becomes: are organic items worth the extra money? Here are a few things to consider when deciding whether to buy organic or not.
Milk: There are many conflicting opinions about whether organic milk is better for you. It is clear that organic milk comes from healthier (and possibly happier) cows raised on farms that don’t allow synthetic or sewage fertilizers. They are not fed genetically altered food and are allowed to graze naturally. A recent study done by Newcastle University found that organic milk has more unsaturated fats than conventional milk. In addition to containing omega-3 acids, organic milk's conjugated linoleic acid (also called CLA) has anti-cancer properties and is believed to have many health benefits for the heart.
Fruits and Vegetables: According to the National Institutes of Health, certified organic fruits and vegetables have been found to have significantly more vitamin C, iron, magnesium and phosphorus and significantly less nitrates than conventional crops.
Pesticides are a huge concern when it comes to choosing fruits and vegetables. It is important to realize though that some fruits and vegetables are more susceptible to absorbing these chemicals than others. The Environmental Working Group has developed a list of these known as the “dirty dozen”. The list includes: peaches, apples, sweet bell peppers, celery, nectarines, strawberries, cherries, pears, grapes, spinach, lettuce and potatoes. It is recommended that when you purchase these items try to stick to certified organic produce or local produce that you can talk to the farmer about. Produce with thicker skins contain less pesticides since their skin doesn’t allow for as much penetration.
Environmentally speaking, organic is a better choice. However, when family budgets are tight, it may not be possible to buy everything organic. So, choose wisely and budget for those items that you just won’t compromise on!
Resources:
http://www.journalofdairyscience.org/article/S0022-0302%2810%2900670-3/abstract
