You are here: Home / Archives for Organic food

Organic Changes Ride Out The Recession

July 11, 2011 By Leave a Comment

It is a misnomer that those in the agriculture business are always financially secure – after all, everyone needs food – right? Unfortunately, nothing could be further from the truth. The scary reality is our farmers and food producers are often the hardest hit during times of economic crisis. Managing your agriculture business can be scary, but there are ways you can stay afloat, even during the worst of times. Making small changes to your product line and carefully budgeting for expenses by using a Reach Prepaid Card can make all of the difference.

It is a good idea to consider today’s current market. While many families are being forced to cut back, there is a growing market for organic fruits and vegetables. Making a change to producing organic foods may offer you an opportunity to ride out the current crisis. Consider talking with produce managers at local grocery stores to see what the demand is in your area. Switching over some of your producing fields to organic foods on a trial basis can help you determine the potential of making the change.

Funding a change like this is obviously a concern, but one that can be conquered with budgeting. Create a workable budget for your trial organic agriculture projects by matching the expenses with what you would normally spend for that field. Use a Reach Prepaid Card to pay for the expenses without going over budget. By lining up potential buyers, starting small, and sticking to a plan you may find yourself in a much more secure place.

Filed Under: Grow Your Own, Organic Tagged With: , ,

Benefits of Organic Foods for Children

January 29, 2011 By Leave a Comment

The benefits of giving children organic food are believed to be numerous.  From illness and disease prevention to overall health, parents are considering organic meat and produce to be the best they can give their little ones.

Since children’s organs and brains are developing, ensuring that they receive proper nutrition that is free from chemicals and additives is essential for their growth.  Parents are aware that children need nutrition from all of the food groups.  They also know that while some whole foods are appetizing, others make children cringe.  The good news is that many organic fruits and vegetables taste better than their non-organic counterparts.  Sweeter apples, more vibrant carrots, and juicier strawberries all are delicious ways to entice children to eat organic produce.  Organic meats are free of growth hormones and chemicals that are present in regular meats, and parents can use organic grains and dairy products to make meats part of heart-conscious meals for their families.

The biggest hurdle that many parents face when turning their children into organic eaters is this:  artificial foods look fun because of the colors, shapes, and characters on the boxes!  Many of the things that make unnatural foods look wonderful are the chemicals and other additives that intrigue children.  Organic farmers and packaging facilities are constantly thinking of new ways to increase their products’ popularity with children.  Many processors choose to color foods with all-natural ingredients and some are also working with cartoon networks and movie companies to increase promotion of organic goods.

Parents have the biggest influence on younger children, and developing healthy eating habits from the start is the best way to encourage organic eating.  Setting an example is also important.  Children who grow up watching their parents consume organic foods are much more likely to do the same later in life.  As with any other habit, healthy eating can be formed and developed constantly.

Filed Under: Organic Tagged With: ,

Why Go Organic?

January 26, 2011 By Leave a Comment

Although there are many positive results for those who go organic, there are several points to consider as well.  When making the decision to consume organic foods, buyers should ask themselves these questions:

1. What can consumers expect as far as costs go?  The answer to this is simple.  Most people that buy organic produce spend more money than the average shopper.  This is because prices in organic foods are higher due to growing conditions and higher expenses on the farmer in the first place.  The farmer, in turn, must pass on the prices he or she experienced.  Prices in organic foods are usually 10%-100% higher than non-organic goods.  Sometimes, they may be even more expensive.  Consumers reason that in order to live a more healthy life, they will spend more money because it ensures that they are taking better care of themselves and their families.
2. Is the food that shoppers need available?  In most cases, the answer is yes.  Many organic foods are being produced daily and farmers are becoming more aware of items that are requested in stores.  The volume of organic food in most supermarkets is not as high as non-organic foods, however.  Most likely, it never will be either.  This is because organic farms are smaller and less in number in the United States.  With stricter regulations than regular farms, growers must compensate for those in the size of their farms and fields.
3. Why are shoppers drawn to organic options?  Besides the researched health benefits, most people believe that they are doing something good for the world when they buy organic foods.  Livestock that are raised organically are well cared for in most cases, and crops are obviously not doused with pesticides and other chemicals.  Consumers agree that the benefits of buying organic food can be very beneficial, and organic products may lead to stronger bodies and minds in the future.

Filed Under: Organic Tagged With: , ,

Organic Dairy Products

January 23, 2011 By Leave a Comment

Organic milk, cream, and other dairy products are increasing in popularity.  Consumers are demanding a healthier and more environmentally friendly option, and organic foods may be the answer.  When families choose organic foods, they are helping the earth’s environment.  Farmers who raise organic livestock and process organic dairy items are mind of the land and what it takes to preserve it.  Essentially, they respect the growing process and believe in its wholeness.

Cows that are certified organic are housed in wide-open buildings and allowed to eat grass from surrounding areas when available. All-natural products are used in their feed and no pesticides, growth hormones, or vaccines are given to them.  Their milk is not treated with artificial products and no unnatural chemicals have been used on the farmer’s land in at least three years.

Today, many dairy products are available in an organic variety.  Milk, cheeses, ice cream, and yogurt are among the most popular.  Consumers report that these items have a more natural taste and include many of the vitamins and minerals that inorganic products do not.  Coloring is not altered and foods appear more creamy and whole than inorganic items.  Due to better growing conditions, cattle are able to thrive.  Although they are not sold in the high volume that inorganic products can be, organic butter, powdered milks and cheeses, as well as half and half, creams, and buttermilks are also for sale.

Organic farms that produce dairy items and milk for processing are usually smaller than industrial-sized farms that sell a high volume of products to stores.  Most likely, animals on these farms are treated more humanely and, in many cases, a wider variety of species are raised.  This ensures higher quality breeding and milk production.  Natural fertilization methods and clean, pesticide-free water contributes to the good health of the animals involved in organic milk production.

Filed Under: Organic Tagged With: ,

Organic Snacking Options

January 22, 2011 By Leave a Comment

Chips have been given a new lease on life.  Although they are typically viewed as “junk food,” many consumers have requested a healthier version of the food they know and love.  They have been heard.  Companies are producing a line of organic chips and customers are excited about it.

Frito Lay announced its array of organic treats in 2003.  Its menu includes natural, white cheddar Cheetos, barbeque chips, natural sea salt potato chips, and organic blue and yellow corn chips as well.  Customers are enjoying reduced-fat versions of some of these chips too.  Most people say taste is not compromised.  Because Frito Lay is offering such a variety of options, more consumers are noticing advertisements and are willing to try healthier options.

Peanuts have also joined the organic snack food favorites.  Dry roasted as well and honey varieties have buyers eating more peanuts and feeling better about doing it.  Organic chips and snack foods appear to have less calories and fat than their inorganic counterparts.  Although many companies do not advertise these health benefits, consumers notice the difference and appreciate the trend toward healthier food choices.

Expiration dates on organic foods are usually closer to the date of production and packaging because they do not use preservatives.  Customers can expect to find the “use by” dates closer to their date of purchase as well.  In general, organic snacks are grown and processed with a guarantee that they are more aware of the earth and its needs.  People that choose organic food enjoy knowing that they are helping the environment by supporting these farmers.

Of course, as with all organic foods, growing materials and harvesting techniques must abide by the USDA guidelines.  No preservatives, chemicals, or pesticides can be used in the production of corn or other grains in the chips.  Peanuts are cleaned and processed using only natural materials and no inorganic foods are packed with organic ones.

Filed Under: Organic Tagged With: ,

Organic Livestock

January 20, 2011 By Leave a Comment

Delivering organic meats to supermarkets can be a daunting task for farmers raising cattle, chicken, and pigs for consumption.  Unlike animals raised conventionally, organic livestock must be completely free of hormones, antibiotics, and other chemicals.  Organic livestock must not be given certain foods were housed in inhumane conditions.

For cattle and other animals raised in an organic setting, feed must consist of only organic greens.  Animals are usually allowed to graze outside on grasses that are free of pesticides and other treatments.  The USDA should certify that all animal feed is entirely organic.  No fillers and other chemicals should be present in the animals’ food.  In turn, this prevents the consumer from ingesting the treatments as well.

Growth implants are prohibited in livestock that farmers intend to sell as certified organic.  Because non-organic animals may be given hormones or preventative antibiotics, consumers choose organic meats because of their natural appeal as well as low risk for illness.  Many diseases and cancers have been linked to inorganic livestock, and farmers choose to lower the number of problems when they raise animals in an all-natural setting.  Some farmers do believe that it is in the animals’ best interest to be dewormed and vaccinated if needed, but then they are not allowed to sell the meat as certified organic.

Many organic farms are smaller in size that typical farms.  Animals are given the freedom to roam within reason and are cleaned as thoroughly, if not more often, than other farm stalls.  Barns are many times larger and more open to ensure that the animals have sufficient air and space for growing.

During processing, inorganic materials cannot contact organic meat.  They are treated in separate facilities and all areas cleaned before handling organic meat.  No preservatives or extra colors are added.  Customers can be sure that the materials used to transport the meat are sterile and protected from germs and potential diseases.

Filed Under: Organic Tagged With: , ,

Pesticides Linked to Illnesses

January 18, 2011 By Leave a Comment

For organic consumers, the perk of eating foods that do not use pesticides during their growth process is a major perk.  Research, although most has been done recently, suggests that many diseases are linked to pesticide use.  A wide range of illnesses and cancers has been investigated and evidence supports a link between inorganic foods’ growing methods and these sicknesses. As consumers become more aware of this evidence, organic food growers expect to experience an incline in their products’ sales.

Cancers have been linked to pesticide use.  Childhood cancer rates are on the rise.  The most common cancers that may be caused by pesticide exposure are leukemia, brain cancer, lymphoma, and testicular/ovarian cancer.  Adults are also at greater risk when they reside in areas that are known for inorganic farming.  Because of methods used to grow this kind of produce, people encounter airborne pesticides on a daily basis.

Birth defects and problems with reproduction have risen in recent years.  Although documentation of these problems has not been linked directly to pesticide use, scientists suspect pesticides have contributed to these incidents.  Whether through food, direct pesticide contact, or exposure through a variety of farming materials, chlorpyrifos will cause defects in fetuses.  It is the most common pesticide on produce but is also used to kill fleas, termites, and roaches.  The percentage of children with limb reduction defects or cleft palates rises significantly for mothers that reside in areas with heavy pesticide use.

Asthma has been observed in farmers that use pesticides on their produce as well.  Documentation supports the rise in asthmatic symptoms such as heavy and difficult breathing, wheezing, and uncontrollable coughing.  Pesticides can also be present on clothing and household items, so the increase in asthma can occur in family members of farmers or those who have direct contact with pesticides.

Filed Under: Food News & Reviews Tagged With: , ,

The Most Common Organic Foods

January 16, 2011 By Leave a Comment

Organic foods are becoming commonplace in supermarkets.  Some fruits, vegetables, and other products are more frequently sold than others.  Higher demand for these foods has been created for many reasons.  Here are a few:
• Apples are among the most frequently purchased organic foods.  According to blind taste tests, organic apples were sweeter and possessed a firmer texture as well.  The absence of pesticides that are unnatural can reduce souring of the fruit and preserve its firmness.  Although it is not confirmed that organic produce is actually higher in nutrients than other foods, most shoppers believe that long-term benefits of eating organic food will be plentiful later in their lives.
• Organic pork, beef, and chicken are several of the most popular organic items.  Animals sold for organic meat are only given organic food.  No fillers or unwanted byproducts are allowed in food fed to these cattle, pigs, or chickens.  Farmers are closely monitored as they produce animals that they intend to sell for food because the USDA has strict regulations for these potential sales.
• Dairy products are very important to organic food buyers.  Cows that are used for milk production are not given hormones, antibiotics, or inorganic food while they produce milk.  After milk is produced, it is screened for the aforementioned items as well as many other harmful components.  No additives are included in organic milk.  Organic milk also includes more omega three acids, which are essential for healthy development.  Currently, approximately 3% of all milk in supermarkets is organic.
• Leafy vegetables are frequently sprayed with pesticides and other chemicals to prevent diseases and pests from eating them.  When they are organically-grown, all of these artificial elements can be avoided.  It is always essential to wash these vegetables thoroughly before consumption.  However, many buyers have a peace of mind knowing that these harsh chemicals are not present on their food.

Filed Under: Organic Tagged With: ,

Supermarkets Profit from Organic Food

January 15, 2011 By Leave a Comment

Supermarkets profit from both organic and inorganic foods.  It is in the better interest of business and the customers to offer as many choices as possible.  Many grocery stores have begun to stock organic fruits and vegetables on a regular basis.  Since the demand for organic food has risen steadily over the past few years, studies show an increase in profit from organic foods.  Shoppers are willing to pay a little more to ensure the absence of artificial sweeteners and other elements that can be found in inorganic produce.

Although both organic and inorganic products are regulated by the Food and Drug Administration, many shoppers feel that organic food is more whole and good for consumption.  It is much like when shoppers would prefer a piece of designer jewelry from JRDunn.com over a regular, retail piece of jewelry.  Like that example they are willing to pay between ten to forty percent more to have organic products.  Is the cost worth it?  Many shoppers think so.  They enjoy peace of mind as well as the guarantee that what they’re eating is at least 95% all-natural.  Studies have also concluded that certain fruits and vegetables have improved taste and texture when they are grown organically.

The USDA has strict regulations regarding organically grown produce and meats.  Rules include soil testing for chemicals and other pesticides as well as making sure animals are not given any artificial products or hormones.  Consumers should beware that other companies sometimes post labels as organic when they are not.  Only buy foods that are certified by the USDA.  Costs may be heightened in products that are not USDA certified because they claim to be organic.

The organic food industry is one of the fastest growing in the United States.  Organic food sales have jumped between 17 and 20% recently, while conventional foods have only reason 2 to 3%.  Researchers attribute the rise in consumers’ trust of organic produce to certain age groups and those seeking health benefits.

Filed Under: Organic Tagged With: ,

Costs of Buying Organic

January 8, 2011 By Leave a Comment

Most shoppers agree that prices of organic foods in supermarkets are significantly higher than those that are non-organic.  Why is organic food more expensive?   How much higher are they priced?  Is it worth the money to buy organic?

There are several reasons why prices rise when it comes to organic food.  Methods of farming, processing, shipping, as well as store conditions all contribute to the prices of these products.  Farmers are expected to comply with certain codes and regulations regarding their crops, and as a result, they must pass those costs on to consumers.  Crop rotation ensures that healthy nutrients continue to thrive in the soil and feed the crops.  This costs more money to plow and plant the new harvest each year.  Without the use of chemicals and pesticides, farmers have lower crop yields and charge more money for their products.  Most of the time, organic farmers are not paid by the government as regular farmers can be.  These subsidies prevent costs of inorganic foods from rising as much.

Organic chicken and beef are considerably costly because of the investment the farmers make in feeding the animals.  Since they are not allowed to feed them with any chemically altered food, costs rise for the farmers, and in turn, the consumers.  Of course, many people feel that this is justified and continue to buy organic meat regularly.

Dairy products are more expensive because animals that are fed organic food produce less milk than other animals.  Because of this, farmers must raise prices of milk, yogurt, cheese, and other dairy items on store shelves.

Many organic consumers agree that it is still best to buy only these products because they taste better, are healthy for the body, and are friendlier to the Earth’s environment.  Watching budgets is still possible for those who choose to buy organic.  Certain stores tend to keep prices down, and doing a little research can help lower the grocery bill significantly.

Filed Under: Shopping Tagged With: ,
«Older Posts