John B. Marek is a writer, farmer, outdoorsman and recovering economic developer. You can find his books at johnbmarek.com.
Organic has become a buzzword in the world of health and wellness. You’ll find it on the labels of numerous products, ranging from food items to skincare products. But have you ever wondered what the term “organic” really means? And is it always as good as it sounds? Let’s explore the truth behind organic labeling and what you need to know before buying organic.
In simple terms, organic products are those that are grown and processed without the use of synthetic pesticides, fertilizers, antibiotics or hormones. They also generally meet specific animal welfare and environmental standards. On paper, this definition sounds ideal. After all, who wouldn’t want products that are free from harmful chemicals and produced in a sustainable manner?
However, the reality is that not all organic products are created equal. The organic label is not a guarantee of quality, and the USDA doesn’t regularly test organic products to ensure they meet all the standards. Instead, they rely on third-party certifiers who may not always be reliable. There have been cases of fraud and mislabeling in the organic industry, which makes it critical to be cautious when purchasing organic products.
In many cases, organic products come from large industrial farms that use dubious practices, such as importing organic feed from overseas or confining animals in cramped spaces. And even those growers who comply with the letter of the law often use organic-certified pesticides that are nearly as bad for the environment as their more deadly cousins. Pyrethrin, for instance, is an organic-certified pesticide that is highly toxic to bees.
Furthermore, pseudo-organic labeling is often used as a marketing tool. Companies understand that consumers are willing to pay a premium for organic products so they will add labels such as “sustainably raised” or “all-natural” that imply organic but actually have no defined meaning.
So, what should you do if you want to purchase healthy, organic products? Be skeptical. Don’t assume that all products labeled as organic are better for you or the environment. Conduct thorough research and seek out products certified by reputable organizations such as the USDA or the Non-GMO Project. Better yet, consider purchasing from local farmers who may not be “certified” organic but use sustainable practices and are transparent about their growing methods. Growers who adhere to “organish” principles are typically very willing to discuss the types of fertilizers, pesticides and herbicides they use and the frequency with which they use them.
While organic products can be an excellent choice for your health and the environment, it’s essential to be aware of the limitations and potential pitfalls of organic labeling. By doing your due diligence, you can make informed choices and support truly sustainable and healthy products.