Organic vs. Natural

What’s the difference? Is there a difference? We’re here to tell you, that yes, there is a difference!

When foods are designated with the USDA Organic symbol, here’s what you can expect:

• No toxic synthetic pesticides, herbicides, or fumigants
• No chemical fertilizers or sewer sludge used as fertilizer
• No intentional genetically modified organisms (GMOs)
• No hormones, antibiotics, artificial ingredients, or trans fats
• No irradiation

And Natural? What’s the definition of “natural?” According to the USDA, there is no clear definition, nor any standard within the industry. So, what might you see when products are labeled natural:

• Minimal processing
• No artificial preservatives
• No artificial colors, flavors, sweeteners, preservatives, additives
• No artificial or synthetic ingredients

And, although this is all really good stuff, remember that if you buy organic you are ensured all that “natural” promises, as well as all that makes organic, well, organic!

And what about Local? Or Sustainable?

Local is great, but only if it’s organic. If a local farmer is drenching their crops with toxic chemicals it doesn’t make it any better for your body or the environment.

Remember, just like “natural,” there are no federally regulated definitions for local or sustainable.