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Organic vs. Non-GMO Foods
Organic vs. non-GMO foods? Have you ever wondered what the differences are, or which choice is better and healthier? If you have, you are not alone. This question is widespread, especially for people who are beginning a natural living journey.
We will break down what each one means in the most simplistic form. We want to help you understand what each term means and decide what is best for you and your family.
What is organic food?
For food to be qualified as organic, it needs to have no more than 5% of non-organic properties. This is according to the certified organic or USDA organic label.
Another qualification for a product to be organic is that on the ingredient list, it has to show that it is legally allowed to be used in that food item by the USDA. If the USDA does not approve it, it cannot be used and is not organic food.
Typically, when a food product is organic, no GMO’s can be in the food. However, this may not always be the case due to some instances of cross-contamination with GMO foods.
To truly ensure your organic food does not have any GMO’s, you should also investigate labels. Make sure the food is also non-GMO verified. The most trusted third-party certification for non-GMO foods is THE NON-GMO PROJECT. They go through strict criteria and rigorous testing to ensure that their labels are not contaminated with GMOs.
What is non-GMO food?
The non-GMO label shows that all the ingredients in that product have been third-party verified by The Non-GMO Project to ensure they do not have any GMO’s.
Their verification process is comprehensive and checks all the product’s ingredients at different points in the supply chain. Periodically, they choose a food package in the supply chain and test it to ensure no GMO or cross-contamination.
The non-GMO label on a product is also there to show that the food does not have certain herbicides that also have GMO’s. However, GMO-free food does not mean the food is organic. Producers and farmers can still use herbicides and pesticides on their food if they are not GMO-based. To avoid pesticides, herbicides, and other chemicals, you need to be eating certified organic food, not just non-GMO food.
Organic vs. non-GMO foods, which one is better
So, organic vs. non-GMO food is the real question here.
- To eliminate the most herbicides, pesticides, chemicals, and GMO’s in your food, then you are best to choose USDA certified organic food. Choosing organic will ensure the food you are eating does not have the most toxic chemicals.
- To make sure the food you are eating is as clean and wholesome as possible, choose a food product that is USDA certified organic and is also non-GMO Project Verified.
Having both labels on the food you buy will get you closer to the best choices. Of course, there can be flaws in the system. Not everything is 100% perfect and reliable all the time. This is why knowing the difference between “Organic vs non-GMO foods” will help you find healthier and safer options for you and your family.
