Organic Foods And Eating Healthy Produce

"We want natural food that is better for us and for the environment," author Samuel Fromartz says about organic foods. In fact, one-quarter of Americans purposefully buy organic food products each week because they don't want pesticides, synthetic chemicals or hormones coming in contact with their edibles.

Of course, there are economic reasons why consumers may choose genetically modified foods instead, since buying organic can cost as much as 50% more. Therefore it's important to consider all aspects of this foods market.

By contrast, organic foods farmers strive to encourage soil and water conservation, not to mention reduce pollution and treat animals ethically. Organic farmers also use other insects, birds or traps to deter pests, use manure or compost to encourage plant growth, rotate crops or mulch to manage weeds, give animals a healthy diet of organic feed and allow rotational grazing, free range mobility and clean housing to prevent disease and to encourage healthy growth.

When buying organic foods, there are some things to consider. Buying raw foods, like fruits or vegetables, should be done in season to get the best quality. Shopping on the day when a new shipment will be arriving can also ensure freshness.

All produce should be washed thoroughly to remove dirt and bacteria, using a small scrub brush for any item where the skin gets eaten. Removing the skin from fruit and vegetables, as well as refraining from eating animal skin can also reduce exposure to pesticides.

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