

Saturday, January 21, 2012

All Natural, Organic, GMOs

All Natural, Organic, GMOs... What does it all mean?  Which should you eat?  I personally try to keep our house and the food that we eat 85-90% organic, with no GMOs.  I will break down what it all means, then you can make the decision for yourself.

What does All Natural mean?
Seems healthy right?  Well, the FDA does not regulate the term "all natural", so it is used at the discretion of the food manufacturers. Just think, when you pick a cooking oil or sandwich bread labeled "all natural", you think you're getting an "all natural" product, right?  Nope, most will contain ingredients from Genetically Modified (GMO) crops (wheat, corn, etc.).  Basically, "all natural" is essentially meaningless, and is a marketing gimmick.

This leads me to... What are GMOs?
GMO-genetically modified organism.  We, as consumers, are constantly reassured by genetic/biotech companies that crops derived from geneticall modified (GM) seeds are perfectly safe.  Genetically modifying technique allows plant varieties to develop at faster rates, which then allows farmers to select for more "efficient" crop varieties.  Some of these techniques include adding genes that are known to cause colon cancer to plants, also there were cases where strands of HIV contaminated soybeans.  One of the companies mostly responsible for GMOs and the growth hormone given to cows (rBGH- known to cause breast & prostate cancer), is Monsanto.  Corn, Soybean, and Canola Seeds that are available to American farmers, usually have GM seeds mixed in.  Here's a little more food for thought... China, Zambia, India, and countries in Europe will not import genetically modified foods from the United States.  Also, countries in Europe have laws requiring all GM foods must be labeled accordingly.  However, the US government refused to allow such labeling of GM foods.  There is some good news though, Foods with the USDA Organic seal or Certified Organic seal do not contain GMOs!

So, What does Certified Organic mean?  
Organic foods are foods that are produced without using synthetic pesticides, chemical fertilizers, no GMOs, and are not processed using irradiation, solvents, or chemical food additives.  Also, when thinking of livestock, the animals are raised on or with access to open pastures, without antibiotics or growth hormones.

Why should I buy Organic?
Yes, it usually costs more, but here are some reasons why you should buy organic...
Organic products have to meet higher standards
Organic foods taste amazing & fresh
Organic production of foods reduces health risk, to non-organic processed foods
Organic farmers respect our earth, natural water sources, and work in harmony with nature
Organic farming helps to keep rural communities healthy

I try to stock my house with organic foods (produce, dairy, meat, & supplies), cleansers (for the home & body), etc... With a house full of different food allergies, and my own personal migraine triggers organic-no GMO has become a way of life.  We try to eat a restaurants that share the same beliefs.  Unfortunately, not all of my friends and family share the same thoughts, which is why we are only 85-90% organic... Plus, I LOVE mint Oreos (can't let them go)!  Healthy living embodies Self, Soul, and Space, organic foods are essential to healthy living.  They are healthier for your body (self), good for the environment (space), which put your mind & soul at ease. 


  1. side note-you can tell the difference between GMO, Organic, and Traditional produce by the PLU number:
    A conventionally grown banana would be: 4011
    An organic banana would be: 94011
    A genetically engineered (GE or GMO) banana would be: 84011

  2. Great, thanks Mahdi... forgot to include the "look for the 9". I've got a great organic baby food cookbook for you, when it's time!