-1.2 billion pounds of pesticides were sprayed in the United States in 2001-02, costing 11 billion dollars. Pesticides are used to kill bugs by poisoning their nervous system. When we ingest fruits and vegetables sprayed with pesticides the side effects can be: Headache, fatigue, depression, mental fog, memory loss to name a few. There are also links to allergies, asthma, autoimmune diseases and certain cancers.
-A recent study showed that approximately 6 out of 10 children with higher-than-average pesticide (organophosphates, one of the more dangerous pesticides) exposure were TWICE as likely to have ADHD.
-Non-organic farming consumes more crude oil in the manufacture and application of chemical fertilizers than any other industry in the United States.
-Agriculture has been named a major source of water pollution, contributing to more than 100 different pesticides found in the groundwater of 45 states.
-40% more antioxidants are found in organic food, according to a 4 year $25 million European Union study. This study also showed that there are higher levels of zinc (most of us are deficient) and iron in organic produce.
-Small local non-organic farms tend to use less pesticides than the larger commercial farms.
-When shopping farmer's markets know that many small local farms may be organic but not certified organic. The certification process is long and expensive. I always ask and most always get an honest answer.
-Organic meats, poultry and egg products come from farms that use organic feed, do not use growth hormones or antibiotics, and that allow animals space and freedom in a natural environment.
-In the spirit of "doing the right thing", I recommend purchasing organic foods from the smaller farms and smaller food companies. Large food manufacturers and corporations have joined the organic food sector largely because of consumer demand which translates to money for them. They are much more willing to sacrifice animal welfare and cut corners in the production process to keep prices down, however this is not staying true to the integrity of organic. It becomes more about money for them and not their consumers good health. A little kudos to the big guys-as more corporations become involved in the production of organics, the more farm land is converted to organic, helping our environment. Corporations have also raised consumer awareness to the benefits of organics.
-USDA Certified Organic (the green label/seal on foods) certifies that the product contains at least 95% organic ingredients. When you read "made with organic ingredients" the product has at least 70% organic ingredients. Foods made with 100% organic ingredients are generally labeled as such.
-Below are two lists that are helpful in deciding which fruits and vegetables to buy organic, if you need to make the choice.
Non-Organic Fruits and vegetables with HIGHEST levels of pesticide residue: Most Toxic
Peaches
Apples
Bell Peppers
Celery
Nectarines
Strawberries
Cherries
Kale
Lettuce
Grapes
Blueberries
Carrots
Pears
Non-Organic Fruits and vegetables least likely to contain pesticide residue: Least Toxic
Onion
Avocado
Sweet Corn
Pineapple
Mango
Asparagus
Sweet Peas
Kiwi
Cabbage
Egg Plant
Papaya
Watermelon
Broccoli
Tomatoes
Sweet Potatoes
*This is good information to have, however, I believe that buying organic is always best!
~One Body, One Life~
Jennifer
