Is Pesticide-Free Food Worth the Premium?
Discover > Farm to Table Eating in Texas > Is Pesticide-Free Food Worth the Premium?
In a recent bid to steer myself towards a healthier lifestyle, I began to take an investigative look into my “toxin load”. It's no surprise that we’re exposed to a plethora of toxins thanks to vehicular pollution. What’s more, many documentaries have alerted us to the fact that microplastics now invade almost every aspect of our lives.
Even high-end cosmetics contain their fair share of heavy metals that have the potential to wreak havoc on our health, especially the nervous system. The one shining ray of hope I can see is the growing number of regenerative farms and ranches here in Texas, as well as the resurgence of farmers markets across the Lone Star State.
Substantial exposure to chemical pesticides can lead to non Hodgkin's lymphoma.
Quite the alarmist, aren’t I? Well, blame that on the post-pandemic world we live in! This “live a toxin-free life agenda” of mine took a more interesting turn when I looked into the food I consume. By and large, I’m a regular produce person. I usually glide past the organic and pesticide-free section in the shopping aisle and yes, the dearer price tag is the top reason why.
According to the USDA, United States Department of Agriculture, Texas has seen quite a steep increase (more than 113%) in agricultural organic products over recent years. Surveys show that sales of organic veggies, fruits, field food crops, and livestock rocketed from $199 million in 2014 to $424 million in 2019. Naturally, the acreage devoted to organic food production also saw a 97% boost.
But is eating non-organic food actually adding to my toxin load or am I worrying over nothing? Let’s find out!
What is Pesticide-Free Food?
Food that is conventionally grown according to specific USDA environmental and agricultural requirements is labeled pesticide-free, or quite simply, organic. Organic farmers utilize PAMS (Prevention, Avoidance, Monitoring, and Suppression) as a special preventative protocol system for pest control and diseases on their farms. Prevention and avoidance usually keep the farm in a healthy condition.
However, when needed, farmers also use mechanical and physical measures, such as utilizing predatory insects or applying a thick layer of mulch for pest control.
A common myth is that organic produce is conventionally grown without the use of any pesticides. On the contrary, organic farms produce food using natural pesticides as a last resort for pest control and to protect their crops from damage against weeds, and other environmental concerns. The difference is, most chemical pesticides and insecticides used by organic farmers are made with naturally occurring ingredients. And even then, the USDA lists certain synthetic substances that are deemed safe to use in organic farming.
The guidelines are similar when it comes to rearing organic livestock. Animal welfare and environmental quality are among the top priorities for organic livestock producers. Organic livestock requires ample access to outdoor space, fresh air, clean drinking water, and direct sunlight.
Fodder and grazing areas for these animals are also required for the produce to be certified organic. While vitamins and minerals can be added to their diet in minimal amounts, growth hormones, antibiotics, and other substances are strictly prohibited. Organic livestock producers ward off disease and parasites through grazing management, proper sanitation, pest control and preventing the introduction of disease agents.
Uncover the true meaning of "organic" in the food world with our guide, exploring the standards and practices that define this important label.
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) in the United States regulates use of pesticides.
If you’re in the Austin area, here are seven farms where you can pick up some delicious grass-fed beef!
Know Your Organic Food Labels
It’s common knowledge that most brands get away with lax labeling regulations when it comes to using terms such as “natural”, “clean”, and “green”. But thankfully, the word “organic” isn’t as easy to print on a product! There are four types of organic food labels, including:
100% organic: Most foods that are labeled 100% organic are raw. Think meat, eggs, fruits, and vegetables.
Organic: Any packaged product made of at least 95% organic fruits and vegetables can be labeled organic. For example, jams and cheese.
Made with organic: Products made of at least 70% organic foods can use the “made with organic” food label to call out specific organic ingredients. However, products with this food label are not allowed to use the USDA organic seal.
Specific organic Ingredients: Products that use less than 70% organic food can specify that certain things are organic in their ingredients list, but they cannot use the USDA organic seal or the word “organic” anywhere else on their packaging.
Is Pesticide-Free Food Worth the Price?
Although the price gap is gradually shrinking, organic food still costs significantly more compared to conventional food. There are a number of reasons why this is the case, such as the expensive certification process, higher distribution costs, intensive labor, and a limited supply. So, how do you find the balance between eating the healthiest you can while staying within your budget? Lists such as the Dirty Dozen and the Clean Fifteen can help you out.
Each year, the Environmental Working Group carries out extensive research to bring us lists of food that have the least amount of pesticide traces. The environmental working group advises that contain higher amounts of pesticide traces should be eaten in their organic form. A general rule of thumb to follow is to buy the Dirty Dozen foods organic and consume the Clean Fifteen from the conventional aisles.
The Dirty Dozen List 2021 contains foods such as strawberries, peaches, kale, spinach, apples, tomatoes, and more. On the other hand, the Clean Fifteen list features foods such as papaya, broccoli, mangoes, asparagus, pineapple, and avocados, honeydew melon, to name a few.
What Are the Requirements for a Food Product to be Labeled Organic or Pesticide-free?
To get organic certification from the USDA, fruits, and vegetables must demonstrate that they satisfy a set of food safety criteria. When it comes to cultivating organic food, growers are required to adhere to hundreds of different requirements, some of which are listed below:
Farming practices cannot harm the land and water.
Synthetic pesticides and fertilizers are often not permitted on organic farms.
It is common knowledge that bees, fruit flies and other animals perished due to conventional farming practices. Still, farming must be carried out in such a way that it does not do any damage to the plants or wildlife in the area.
Organic farmers are prohibited from using various agricultural techniques, including pesticides, even though these techniques are standard practice on big commercial farms. For instance, conventional farms are permitted to use sewage sludge as a fertilizer, but organic farms are not permitted to do so.
The Healthiest Alternative to Consuming Food Tainted With Pesticides
The use of pesticides harms the overall environment. Therefore, the time has come for us to move away from agricultural practices like pest control that include the use of toxic chemicals and toward natural agricultural practices, such as those used to produce organic food. It would help reduce the pesticide exposure.
Natural fertilizers such as manure are used in producing organic foods, while synthetic pesticides, antibiotics, and genetically modified organisms are not used at any point in the process. As a result, food produced using organic agricultural practices is not subjected to any kind of chemical processing.
Navigate the world of food labels with confidence using our comprehensive guide, designed to help you understand and make informed choices about the food you consume.
Benefits
People's knowledge is growing, resulting in a greater preference for organic versus non-organic products. You may get a wide variety of organically grown foods on the market.
The list of organic goods is rather extensive and includes fresh produce such as organic rice, organic pulses, organic corn syrup (how long does corn syrup last?) organic ketchup, organic bell peppers, organic spices, organic tea, and organic jaggery (how long does jaggery last?). These naturally produced goods offer several health advantages similar to those of organic food, and some of these benefits are listed below.
1. A reduction in the use of pesticides
If you don't purchase organic, you're still exposing your body to toxic chemicals, even after washing the food. When these compounds are ingested over an extended period, it is found that they are lethal. Consuming organic food can offer health benefits since it does not include pesticides.
2. Improvements to human health directly result from eating nutritious meals
Because organic food such as fruits and vegetables does not contain any chemicals, it is inherently healthier than conventionally grown food.
The amounts of iron, vitamin C, magnesium, zinc, and phosphorus in organic food are much higher than in non-organic food. Organic food has an omega-3 fatty acid level that is 50 percent greater.
It was discovered that organic pulses and dals had a higher concentration of dietary fiber.
Nitrate concentrations are higher in foods that were cultivated using traditional techniques. A higher nitrate level is associated with the development of fatal illnesses and is harmful to infants. The amounts of nitrate in organic foods have been demonstrated to be 30 percent lower, which reduces the risk of deadly illnesses.
GMOs are plants that have had their DNA transformed in a manner that cannot naturally occur via conventional cross-breeding methods. Because organic food does not include any artificial bodies, it is safe for human consumption.
3. A higher amount of antioxidants
Antioxidants protect cells from damage caused by free radicals, which may have resulted in catastrophic illnesses in the absence of antioxidants. There is as much as a 69% concentration in organic food, which also helps to boost the immune system. According to a meta-analysis conducted in 2014 and published in the British Journal of Nutrition, organic crops showed much greater levels of antioxidants than non-organic crops.
4. Flavor
Organic food items do not include any additional preservatives, so even though they are designed to have a longer shelf life, they tend to have a more fresh flavor. Because they take more time to mature, their sugar and mineral structures are superior. Because organic food is made using natural manufacturing techniques rather than artificial flavoring, it has a natural luster and a flavorful flavor that is rich in flavor. For instance, organic tomato ketchup has a more savory and authentic flavor and a thicker consistency since it is made from organic components.
5. Environment
Organic farming is gentler on the environment than conventional farming, which has not only negative effects on human health but also has negative effects on environmental health in the following ways:
If you choose organic items, you won't be contributing to the pesticide contamination of running water sources since there won't be any insoluble chemicals running off into the water supply.
Because natural fertilizers are utilized in farming, the soil is not subjected to potentially hazardous substances. It improves the health of the soil, which in turn results in healthier crops. Additionally, farming helps to prevent the erosion of soil.
Because the plants are not treated with detectable pesticides for pest control, the air we breathe remains clean and uncontaminated.
Bees and other pollinators are shielded from harmful toxins by organic agricultural practices.
6. Sludge from sewage treatment
Sludge from sewage treatment is a byproduct of wastewater treatment and includes various potentially harmful components. After it has been processed, it may be used as fertilizer. However, farming does not make use of them. Therefore the food that is produced is not exposed to detectable pesticides residues.
7. Protecting the health of future generations
The health risks posed by pesticides used for pest control to unborn children are far higher than those posed to adults. They get the beneficial nutrients they need from organic food, which is also devoid of harmful chemicals, establishing the groundwork for future generations to be healthy.
Where to Get Sustainable Foods in Texas
Embark on a journey to discover sustainable food sources in Texas with our guide, pointing you to the best places where you can find and support local, environmentally conscious options.
Obtaining Organic Food that is Less Expensive?
Organic fruits and vegetables may be purchased at specialist markets and big supermarket chains in some regions around the United States; however, their prices are often higher than conventional options.
There are a few different methods by which one might buy organic food at a more reasonable price:
Make use of coupons
You may obtain coupons for organic food sent to you weekly or monthly if you join the mailing list at a local organic store that you like, such as Sprouts or Mom's Organic Market. If you do this, the market will send you coupons for fruits and vegetables.
Visit farmers' markets
In many towns and cities, on Saturdays, there are farmer's markets where you can buy organic food produced locally. These provide the opportunity to make purchases directly from the farmer. You may be able to save money, particularly near the end of the day when vendors are attempting to unload their inventory of fruits and vegetables. Make sure you do not do these things when in the farmers market.
Mail-order
Several businesses provide home delivery of organic foods, including fruits and vegetables. A number of these organizations provide discounts for new members or lower costs for selecting food that is less than flawless.
Current Challenges of Pesticide-free Farming
Recent years' worth of changes to the standards—or the lack thereof—have given rise to grounds for worry. This is what you need to be aware of:
Recently, proponents of farming at organic level proposed more stringent guidelines to be used in organic animal certification, which they name the "Organic Livestock and Poultry Practices." The suggested modifications would have resulted in higher requirements for organic animal farming and stricter enforcement.
Sadly, the regulation didn't make it through the voting process. That implies, for instance, that even if some egg cartons contain the organic mark, the hens only had "outside access" to an enclosed porch rather than a genuine pasture, even though the egg cartons bear the seal indicating that the eggs come from organic birds. Egg collection in the field is hardly the idyllic agricultural scene that comes to mind for most people when they hear the word "organic."
Organic cattle must have access to the outdoors throughout the whole year. However, not all farms offer enough grass for their animals. Small farms may not have the required grass to feed their animals.
Congress approved a measure enabling hydroponic manufacturing to qualify for the organic label.
There is a widespread belief among organic farmers that dirt is fundamental to farming, but hydroponic farming does not need soil. It is possible to purchase a product with an organic label even if it was cultivated in a controlled environment without using soil or natural light.
There has been an uptick in import fraud as the organic industry has become more lucrative. This indicates that a portion of the shipments (often feed for animals) that were labeled as organic were, in fact, conventional. The most current version of the Farm Bill allocated particular resources to the fight against fraud.
Confusion has risen in the supermarket aisles as a result of the proliferation of labels such as "fair trade," "biodynamic," "non-GMO," "certified humane," and many more.
The basic conclusion is that no other label on the market today is as comprehensive as the USDA Certified Organic designation.
The USDA Certified Organic label is the only certification that guarantees the absence of genetically modified organisms (GMOs), synthetic pesticides, herbicides, or fertilizers. It also forbids the use of dozens of additional chemicals, even in processed foods.
What Exactly Does it Signify?
Don't be discouraged by the organic industry's developing difficulties. The USDA Certified Organic mark is still a good indication that the product in question was produced in a manner that protect public health.
Talk to the farmer raising the food you eat whenever you have the chance. Inquire about their farming methods and motivations. This is the most reliable method for knowing exactly what you are purchasing. But if you're busy like so many others, know that you may choose items with the USDA Certified Organic logo and still feel good about it.
Several new certifications are being developed to elevate organic to an even higher standard. Keep an eye out for the following labels that say "coming soon" if you share the commitment to the preservation of healthy soil, the protection of animals, and the promotion of social justice:
The Regenerative Organic CertifiedTM label stipulates that for qualified farms to get the certification, they must first obtain organic certification from the USDA. The farms are then required to apply extra measures to enhance the land's health, the animal's well-being, and social justice.
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, consuming an unhealthy diet renders medicinal treatment useless, while consuming a healthy diet makes medical treatment superfluous. Because the food you eat has an immediate impact on the health of you and your family, making informed decisions about what to eat is of the utmost importance. Consuming food that has been tainted with pesticides is not only bad for your health since it fills your body with harmful chemicals, but it is also harmful to mother nature. Therefore, avoiding it would be beneficial to one's health.
More options are now accessible to us than ever regarding the food we consume and how we do it. Yes, there is a shift occurring in the organic market. However, you can bring about a change for the better.
Is the USDA Certified Organic badge nothing more than a gimmick for marketing? Never in a million years.
Organic agriculture is supported by a stringent certification procedure based on environmentally responsible agricultural methods that save resources and reduces pesticide exposure. You may and should feel good about your purchase when you buy items with the USDA Certified Organic logo.
Regardless of labels, some mindful habits can ensure the food you consume is safe and minimal in pesticide traces:
Scrub, wash, and peel all your fruits and veggies
Buy seasonal produce from your local farmers’ markets
Remove outer layers of your leafy greens
Trim any visible fats and the skin from meat
Subscribe to a local CSA if you have deep concerns about conventionally available produce in your supermarket
Are you an out-and-out organic shopper, or do you choose to pick the best of both worlds? Let us know in the comments! Read more about our coverage on organic food and its benefits here.
