Confused about Organics?

Confused about organics? There is a lot of information on the market about what and what not to buy. Add the cost factor and it can get a little overwhelming. Luckily a group called the Environmental Working Group has done the work for us.
According to findings from 87,000 government tests, the Environmental Working Group (http://www.ewg.org/) created a list they call 12 the “dirty dozen.” Ranked from 1-being the worst to 12, these are the fruits and vegs we need to be aware of. Some fruits and vegetables can have nine different pesticides in a single serving….YIKES!

DIRTY DOZEN:
Buy These Organic

1. Peach – worst
2. Apple – worst
3. Bell Pepper -worst
4. Celery
5. Nectarine
6. Strawberries
7. Cherries
8. Kale
9. Lettuce
10. Grapes (Imported)
11. Carrot
12. Pear

CLEAN 15:
Lowest in Pesticides

1. Onion -best
2. Avocado -best
3. Sweet Corn -best
4. Pineapple
5. Mango
6. Asparagus
7. Sweet Peas
8. Kiwi
9. Cabbage
10. Eggplant
11. Papaya
12. Watermelon
13. Broccoli
14. Tomato
15. Sweet Potato

Should You Care About Pesticides?
This is something that you should definitely do your research on. You will find both sides of the coin on this debate and whether you care or not will be your own personal decision.
So what do you do when you get your produce home?
Do you wash, peel, soak…or give it a quick wipe like my husband does;-)
Rinsing reduces but does not eliminate pesticides. Soaking is not recommended unless you are using an antibacterial soaking agent. Vinegar and water spray is always a good option. Peeling helps, but valuable nutrients often go down the drain with the skin. The best approach: eat a varied diet, rinse and wash all produce with specialty veggies wash (ex: http://www.naturecleanliving.com/fruit_veggie_wash_concentrate).

Whether or not you decide to switch to organic is a matter of choice. I always recommend that you do your own research and then make your decisions on what you are comfortable with. Do I choose to shop organically? Yes, as much as I can…but this has been my personal decision and it has been a learning process each step of the way.
Still confused?
Need help filling your cupboards with healthier choices to suit your and your family/household needs?
Need some fresh ideas for meals and snacks?
Why not book a Grocery Tour: In your personalized tour, I will teach you how to read labels, decipher ingredient lists and figure to your best options to fill your cupboards with.  Tours can be booked on your won, with a friend or in a small group.  We go to a local grocery store (recommend Super Stores) and the tour begins!

For more info or to book a tour, send me a message or comment below.
And keep posted for more tips and tools!