In all subjects today it seems that there are more stories about the horrifying things that can happen than there are happy endings. This is especially relevant to us when it concerns the food we eat. We hear so many scary stories about GMO’s, processed food, and pesticides that a trip to the grocery store can sometimes seem like a scene from a horror film. If you are thinking of making the switch to a more natural or organic lifestyle here are some tips to help you avoid these common organic – natural myths. There are plenty of crazy ideas and tons of false advertising floating around; hopefully these tips will help you learn what is really important and what things you can ignore!
Avoid These Organic – Natural Myths
Avoid Thinking That Organic Food Tastes Better
Organic and natural options do not necessarily taste better. You probably won’t notice a significant difference in taste if you switch your brand of carrots. If you are looking for produce that tastes better you might consider buying more in season produce or produce that is locally grown and harvested. The important thing to remember is that your distaste for pineapples is not coming from the way they were grown and harvested, you probably just don’t like pineapples! Often people will make the switch to organic and natural foods and expect them to taste significantly different and that is simply not the case, avoid regret and disappointment when you avoid this organic/natural myth.
You Still Have To Wash the Produce: Avoid Thinking It Contains Less Bacteria
One big no no in the produce world is eating produce that you have not thoroughly washed and rinsed. Just because something is grown naturally or organically does not mean that it can be skipped in the washing routine. These products are still packaged, shipped, handled several times, and placed on a shelf where strangers can pick them up, put them down, squeeze them, etc. You need to be just as cautious with organic and natural produce as you are with other types. Bacteria and dangerous microorganisms can still be lurking on the skin and leaves of your favorite fruits and veggies so make sure you give them a good wash and rinse before eating!
Avoid the Assumption That It Will Be More Difficult or Expensive to Find
Oftentimes, people avoid a natural or organic lifestyle because they fear it will be more expensive or more of a hassle to find foods that fit the profile. Do not be fooled by this common myth! You can find tons of natural and organic options that are available at your local grocery store. Read labels carefully to make sure that you are getting products that are actually organic and not just “made from organic ingredients” those that state the latter only need to contain something like 70% organic products. Another great benefit is that Walmart stores carry a significant amount of organic products at lower prices, you can find organic and natural options outside of Whole Foods, promise!
It’s Not Always Better for the Environment
It is a common misconception that organic and natural foods are better for the environment. While they are better for you and the soil because they do not require any pesticides or chemicals they actually produce less. Because of the amount of waste and smaller crop sizes it can take much more land to produce these crops. We would have to lose valuable forest lands to make enough space to feed everyone on organic and natural foods. There are many benefits to making a switch to an organic or natural lifestyle but you should do some research if you are only making that switch because you feel it is best for the environment and world in general. Make sure you are completely informed before you make a decision like this!
Do you prefer to eat natural and organic foods? What made you decide to make the switch?
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