Going Organic- A Quick and Dirty Guide

Organic produce just tastes awesome and is just better for overall health as it contains higher levels of antioxidants, vitamins and minerals. Another added bonus is that by purchasing organic fruits and vegetables - you are supporting farmers and companies who are working hard to promote biodiversity (think birds, bees, bugs that like to actually hang out on the farm) and maintain top soil health- forward thinking farmers who care about generations to come.   The next time you are standing in the produce section of the grocery store surveying the organic produce prices compared to conventional,  remind yourself that you are investing in your health, supporting good business practices, and being more kind to your body and the environment. 

Toxic organophosphates are compounds found in commonly used pesticides and can have negative neurological and behavioral effects even with low-level exposure. Several studies have also shown that the consumption of pesticides can adversely affect the nervous system, increase the risk of cancer and decrease fertility.  

The Environmental Working Group keeps an updated list of the twelve fruits and vegetables that are highest in pesticide residues (The Dirty Dozen) and the fifteen fruits and veggies with the lowest pesticide residues (The Clean Fifteen).  You will notice the skin of the vegetables and fruits on The Dirty Dozen list are usually eaten- making it more likely that you will be consuming pesticide residue.  

Jennifer Spithill