Organic Food: What's the Difference

So what are the main differences between organic food and those that are grown conventionally or GMO’s? Can you see the difference just by looking at the item in question? Truth of the matter is, a large portion of what we find in our grocery stores are products that contain GMO’s, and the only true way to tell one way or another is to find out where the food was grown through the label found on the product. When it comes to produce, there are three important facts to help guide you:

When you see a label with four numbers in the PLU, you can be sure that the produce was grown conventionally or “traditionally”, including the use of pesticides.
When you see a label with five numbers in the PLU, starting with the number “8”, this will inform you that this item is a genetically modified fruit or vegetable.
When you see a label with five numbers in the PLU, starting with the number “9”, this will inform you that the produce has been grown organically and is not genetically modified.

In my opinion, when I put food into my body, what’s most important to me is that it’s real food. Pesticides and GMO’s have proven long term negative effects on our bodies, so the slightly higher cost of buying organic now will only save me money down the line in medical bills. Additionally, there are more and more ways to find fresh organic produce right where you live if you are open to looking. Companies such as Organics Live offer free delivery for produce boxes at almost 20% less than retail. If they are not available in your area, there may be a CSA or other option available to suit your needs.

Read on to find out more about what’s in your food.