The Institute of Science in Society (ISIS) cautioned the United States health authorities that there could be an increased tendency for food related illnesses in people who consumed genetically modified foods. So I did a little research to find out whether it was really necessary to turn organic and here’s what I found. What is organic food? Organic practices prohibit the use of hormones, antibiotics or any other type of harmful chemicals in the food supply of livestock. Organic agriculture also tries to maintain a natural ecosystem by encouraging the use of composted natural fertilizer, and natural methods such as crop rotation to help improve soil fertility, nitrogen and phosphorous. Quick tips on turning organic! To maintain your family’s health the best thing is to turn organic and here’s how: -
Conventional farming uses pesticides and fertilizers, and quite a few of these are carcinogenic. Turn to organic foods, which prohibit the use of strong fertilizers or pesticides. Go to the organic store, pick up the freshest vegetables and cook the most perishable items immediately to get the best out of them.
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Organic foods can be expensive, so buy what’s in your price range. Buy cheaper veggies and fruits like spinach, potatoes, apples, cherries and nectarines, which if not organic can contain a larger amount of pesticides.
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As organic foods are not chemically treated, they must be packaged and sold as soon as possible. Veggies and fruits are bursting with flavor, juices and 50% more vitamins and minerals as compared to conventional foods. Conventional or genetically modified foods look good on the supermarket shelf and last longer but often taste like sawdust.
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Conventionally reared dairy cows and farm animals are usually force-fed a cocktail of antibiotics, growth hormones and other medicines. These drugs can linger in the meat and dairy products and are directly consumed by people. Meat is expensive and organic is definitely more so. So reduce the quantity you consume. You can replace it with green beans or mushrooms. For children organic milk is the first thing to opt for. Conventional milk can contain large amounts of antibiotics, hormones and pesticides. Agreed that organic foods may be a little expensive. But trust your instincts and turn organic! Do you have any more tips on how to turn organic? [Source: Dr. Mae-Wan Ho, ISIS Report, Nov. 3, 2001, Institute of Science in Society]
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