What's the deal with Organic Foods?

Before the 1900s, all farming practices were considered organic. It wasn’t until the 1960s and 1970s that the term “organic” started being used as a separate entity to the “normal” foods we were buying. Soon after this labeling hit the stores, the interest in and popularity of organic foods blossomed. Although multitudes of meats, fruits and vegetables started being labeled organic, they were not being held to any standards verifying their authenticity. In 1990, the USDA took control and the Organic Foods Protection Act (OFPA) was passed. OFPA, passed as a part of the 1990 Farm Bill, developed national standards for organically produced agricultural products to assure consumers that products marketed as organic met consistent, uniform standards. The USDA is the agency responsible for regulating these standards. If meat, poultry, eggs or dairy products are labeled organic, they must come from animals given no antibiotics or growth hormones. Organic produce must be raised without using most conventional pesticides; fertilizers made with synthetic ingredients or sewage sludge; bioengineering; or ionizing radiation. Although almost every fruit, vegetable, or fresh meat cut can be found organic, some are more important to buy organic than others. The Environmental Working Group, an organization consisting of scientists, researchers and policymakers, develops two lists each year; The Dirty Dozen and The Clean 15 (http://www.pbs.org/wnet/need-to-know/health/the-dirty-dozen-and-clean-15-of-produce/616/). The Dirty Dozen lists the fruits and vegetables you should always try to buy organic. Celery, peaches, strawberries, and apples top this list almost every year. The Clean 15 list outlines the produce that is acceptable to buy non-organic. These items usually have a thick peel or covering which prevents pesticides and chemicals from penetrating the fruit or vegetable inside. You can find onions, pineapples, avocados, and papayas on this list. Organic foods help in the preservation and conservation of the natural environment. They support biodiversity of plant and crop species, and can be more nutritious. Visit your local farmer’s market for the freshest selection of organically raised produce. Or, plant your own garden filled with all your favorite fruits and vegetables for an even closer to home organic collection!  Submitted by: Alice Jablonski, BS Nutrition 3997 Midland Ave Knoxville, TN 37919 alicejablonski@gmail.com