Some Interesting Organic Food Facts

There are many facts and rumors running around about organic foods, some of them true and some of them completely false. The primary goal of organic food agriculture is to optimize the health of the soil life, plants, animals and people. It is a very simple goal and one that is very simple to attain. One misconceived organic food fact is about the use of antibiotics and hormones. Very much unlike the conventional food stuffs, organic foods do not use antibiotics to prevent animals from getting diseased or sick. They do not use growth hormones to beef up livestock or to provide a better immune system. Organic foods are also not completely pesticide free. Another organic food fact; just because a food says it is organic does not mean it is free of herbicides or chemicals. Organic foods use natural cultural practices to ward against nasty pests and diseases. Some chemical pesticides must be used, but only in moderation. There is usually 73% less pesticide on organic vegetables than there is on conventional vegetables when it finally gets to the consumer. The next interesting organic food fact is that red raspberries, strawberries, peaches and apples that are grown in the United States and cantaloupe that is grown in Mexico are the foods which are most contaminated with pesticides. The least contaminated are watermelon, kiwi, bananas, pineapple and domestically grown cantaloupe. The least contaminated of the vegetable line is onions, peas and corn. These tests were made by the U.S. government.

Availability

Another organic food fact is that organics can be found in any supermarket. From organic detergents, soaps, insect repellants and shampoos, the organic market has become widespread for the consumer. It is a popular food and industry and can be found almost anywhere. Organic fabrics such as hemp and cotton can also be found everywhere. Organic dog and cat food have become a popular alternative to the standard brands of pet food.

The U.S. Department of Agriculture has strict labeling rules. A strict organic food fact is that if it is labeled organic, the food has to be 95% organic. This is an organic food fact that most consumers need to know before shopping for organic food. If the label does not say organic, then it is not organic. The product will be less than 70% organic. The organic ingredients may be listed on the side of the package, but if the label does not say organic, it is not organic.