Is organic worth the price?

Organic is in fashion! A question I get asked often is, “But why is organic produce more expensive? Is it really worth the price?”

The word “Organic” refers to the way farming produces our agricultural produce, using crop rotation in order to keep our soil in tip top shape to avoid elements that damage the earth and our health. It also reduces pollution. Instead of chemical fertilizers, organic farming will apply manure or compost to feed the plants and the earth. Synthetic versus natural? Organic farming uses natural pesticides instead of synthetics to control weeds and insects.

Check your labels for organic! Any product labeled as organic must be USDA certified. This means that it’s produced and processed according to the USDA standards. Although the seal is voluntary it is each time more common to see it displayed on labels.

Organic produce is healthier! Having higher levels of minerals and vitamins strengthen your family’s immune system. And, you better absorb that vitamin A, C, B or calcium than if you’d stuff down a bottle of supplements. That’s why we hardly get sick.

What about taste? Can you taste the difference between the “real deal” fresh locally grown produce and grocery purchased? We can. Fresh produce tastes like produce. That crispy kale tastes nutritious with that distinct flavor – just try it in the oven as a kale chip and let us know what you think! 

We always speak about seasonal. By purchasing what’s growing during that specific month or two, you can keep your budget under control. You support local produce while stimulating your creative genius in the kitchen!

Guess what we cooked for dinner last night? Pasta salad with tatsoi – choose your favorite pasta, boil it “al dente” and add chopped tatsoi, beets, grapes and your own salad dressing (rice vinegar, olive oil and some fresh herbs). Enjoy!