Knowing the Difference
Organic Vs. Natural
Natural = the true definition: produced or existing in nature. (Wikipedia)
There are attempts out there by large manufacturing companies to mislead all of us consumers into believing that we are making better choices for our familie's food consumption. The truth is we are being mislead and the USDA and the FDA are allowing it.
I decided to write this article to clear up some of the misconceptions of the manufactures labeling of "Natural" and "Organic". It is a very complex subject and one that an entire book could be written about.
Often, a label on the grocery store shelf will say "Natural." it may even say 'Natural and Organic" on the same box. It can be confusing! So here is a definition of each so that you may understand the difference.
According to the FDA, the definition of Natural, All Natural or 100% Natural, is as follows; Natural Foods that are processed without preservatives or a
Natural Foods that are processed without preservatives or additives but can be grown in conventional methods. ( Such as Genetically Modified or with the use of Pesticides.)
Additives but can be grown in conventional methods (such as Genetically Modified or with the use of Pesticides.) The FDA only regulates the term "natural" only as it applies to the following: added color, flavors and synthetic substances. A package that says " all natural" may contain any, or all, of the following: synthetic pesticides, herbicides, chemical fertilizers, heavy metals, msg, byproducts,genetically modified organisms, industrial solvents, chemical food additives, or synthetic chemical vitamins. Manufacturers are not required to list chemical contaminants in the foods that we eat and can still label their product as "natural".
Okay, I am not a rocket scientist, but some of those things just do not seem "natural" to me. I really do not see myself serving up a big plate of industrial solvents with a side of pesticides to my loved ones. YECH!!!! Now lets look at the definition of organic....
Organic: Foods that are produced using methods that DO NOT involve modern synthetic inputs such as synthetic pesticides and chemical fertilizers, do not contain genetically modified organisms, and are not processed using irradiation, industrial solvents,or chemical food additives.
The organic food industry is heavily regulated, meats and poultry may have no use of antibiotics and or growth hormones of any kind. Organic farming does not push an animal to produce more then they would naturally. Organic Farming does not push for factory farming organic farming does promote old fashioned standards and practices. In the United States, 95% of the ingredients must be organic to have the USDA Organic stamp of approval.
In closing, I hope this article has helped you to understand the difference in labeling. When you know your food sources, it is easier to make wise choices!
Johnna Annable is a graduate of the Culinary Institute of America, and SDSU with degrees in Hotel and Restaurant Management as well as business administration. Currently, she resides in beautiful Nevada County where she is self employed as a business consultant.
If you would like to contact Johnna Annable, Please email her at [email protected]