This word seems to be on many people’s lips these days, but with it comes so much confusion! So, let’s start with a basic definition: Organic produce (and other ingredients) are grown without the use of:

• Pesticides

• Synthetic fertilizers

• Sewage sludge

• Ionizing radiation

• Genetically modified organisms (GMOs) and/or using bioengineering technology

Also, animals that produce meat/poultry, eggs, and dairy products do not take antibiotics or growth hormones.

When it comes to bath, body, and cleaning products and cosmetics labeled as “organic,” this refers to the product itself, as well as how the ingredients were grown, produced, and/or processed to create the product.

Organic food and food products with “organic” on the label

The demand for organic food, specifically produce, has skyrocketed over the past two decades, with the growing concern over our exposure to pesticides driving the buying and consumption of organic foods.

Research and several experts have validated the idea that if you want to reduce your exposure to chemical residues (such as pesticides), the best way to do that is to choose more organic products in your health routine.

Food to consider buying organic over conventional counterparts

According to the Environmental Working Group’s Dirty Dozen List, you should consider purchasing the following organic produce:

1. Strawberries

2. Spinach

3. Kale

4. Nectarines

5. Apples

6. Grapes

7. Peaches

8. Cherries

9. Pears

10. Tomatoes

11. Celery

12. Potatoes

The goal of the Dirty Dozen list, which is updated annually, is to let consumers know which fruit and vegetables have the highest amount of pesticide residues.

How can I be assured that what I’m buying is actually organic?

In the United States, the USDA has identified 3 categories of labeling organic products:

• 100% Organic: Made with 100% organic ingredients

• Organic: Made with at least 95% organic ingredients

• Made With Organic Ingredients: Made with a minimum of 70% organic ingredients with strict restrictions on the remaining 30% including no GMOs (genetically modified organisms).

Products with less than 70% organic ingredients may list organically produced ingredients on the side panel of the package, but may not make any organic claims on the front of the package.

In the United States, a product is considered legally organic when the product:

• bears the USDA Organic Seal

• has been certified organic, and

• contains 95% or more organic ingredients.

Try not to be confused with, and swayed by, the term “natural.” This term is commonly being used by marketers, and it doesn’t mean that the food or product also being organic. In reality, the term “natural” can be used on any product label without third party verification, unlike the organic label.

Personal care and beauty products with “organic” on the label

Certified Organic personal care and beauty products must adhere to the following standards:

• No animal testing

• No GMOs

• No controversial chemicals

• No parabens and phthalates

• No synthetic colors, dyes, or fragrances

• No nano particles

Whether to use natural and/or organic personal care products is up to your preferences and personal values. But whenever you’re introducing new products into your routine or for your family, you should always do your research. Look up the ingredients, figure out if they are natural or organic - if that’s important to you!