MONTHLY FACT SHEET PUBLISHED BY THE FAMILY AND CONSUMER SCIENCES DIVISION By Danielle Y. Hairston Green, Program Specialist and Dr. Nelson T. Daniels, Program Specialist
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Organic Vs. Non Organic Many consumers have been very curious about the difference between Organic vs. Non Organic foods. Oftentimes, questioning if there is really a difference; are organic foods safer, healthier, more nutritious? Years ago organic foods could only be found in specialty markets or high end restaurants. Today you can find organic foods in most markets across the country.
to decide between purchasing a beautiful, red, shiny organic apple and purchasing the equally beautiful, red, shiny non organic apple. According to the Mayo Clinic the “word ‘organic’ Refers to the way farmers grown and process Agricultural products, such as fruits, vegetables, grains, dairy products and meat. Organic farming Practices are designed to encourage soil and water Conservation and reduce pollution”(Mayo Clinic).
You can imagine the confusion that this creates among consumers when trying
5 Common Questions
(source: Mayo Clinic, USDA)
1. Are organic foods clearly marked? The USDA has established an organic certification program that requires all organic foods to meet strict government standards. However, according to the University Of Wisconsin-Madison affixing the USDA Organic seal is voluntary.
2. Does ‘organic’ and ‘natural’ mean the same thing? No, they are not the same and shouldn’t be used interchangeably. Only foods that are grown and processed according to the USDA organic standards can be labeled organic.
3. Is organic food more nutritious? According to the Mayo Clinic, probably not, researchers have conducted a study that revealed no significant difference.
4. Why do consumers choose organic food? Consumers want foods that are free from harmful pesticides. Also, organic farming practices are designed to benefit the environment.
5. What are the downsides to buying organic? The most common concern is the cost. Higher prices are due mostly to more expensive farming practices. In addition, because organic fruits and vegetables aren’t treated with waxes or preservatives, they may spoil faster. Strong, healthy families are the foundation of American communities, and family and community well-being is a shared priority of all Americans. Through research and education, the Prairie View A&M University Cooperative Extension Program’s Family and Consumer Sciences component helps strengthen families and communities. Family and Consumer Sciences area of focus include Nutrition and Childhood Obesity, Food Safety, Health and Wellness, Parenting, Financial/Money Management, and Bullying. The Cooperative Extension Program serves people of all ages regardless of race, color, national origin, sex, religion, disability, political beliefs, and marital or family status. (Not all classes are protected by legal statutes).
Reference: USDA, Mayo Clinic, University of Wisconsin-Madison Prairie View A&M University, Prairie View, Texas 77066 * 936-261-5118