go organic

November 2007

(NAPSI)-During the past decade, U.S. sales of organic foods have grown 20 percent and are expected to more than double by 2009, according to Consumer Reports. Today, more and more grocery stores are selling organic foods to keep up with this changing consumer pattern.  And they are stocking everything from organic fruits and vegetables to organic coffee and beer.

Thinking of joining in on the trend? Follow these simple steps as you explore the organic category.

1. Check packaging to ensure product is organic certified.

When shopping for organic foods, carefully check the packaging to make sure it has an organic certification. This means that the product has been organically grown by an independent third party and certified by an approved U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) agency. The Organic Trade Association certifies products as organic by having farmers undergo at least two inspections prior to certification. In addition, farmers must pass annual inspections to verify that they meet certified organic requirements.

2. Choose organic foods from trusted suppliers.

Organic products have become mainstream, so it's easy to find them at most major food retailers. Grocery stores carry everything from their own organic labels to generic organic brands to various organic-labeled products from new food companies looking to emerge onto the organic scene.

While products may display an organic label, it's important to read the label for the certification to trust the brand you're purchasing.  Organic suppliers range from little known organic farmers to major brand names such as Tropicana that have jumped on the organic bandwagon. Strolling through the store will allow you to become oriented to organic products available from this diversity of suppliers.

3. Examine organic options carefully.

Look to purchase organic products that are naturally packed with health benefits, regardless of their organic certification, such as fruit, vegetables, milk, meat, and juices.  For example, organic or non-organic orange juice is an excellent source of vitamin C and a good source of folate.  It provides essential vitamins and minerals for your health. Carefully read the nutrition label on all products in order to understand the health benefits that each provides.

The Organic Trade Association also lists these reasons to go organic:

• Organic products meet stringent standards.
• Organic food tastes great.
• Organic production reduces health risks
• Organic farms respect our water resources
• Organic farmers build healthy soil
• Organic farmers work in harmony with nature
• Organic producers are leaders in innovative research
• Organic producers strive to preserve diversity
• Organic farming helps keep rural communities healthy

Visit www.ota.com to learn more.