Organic food – how to recognize it?

Organic food can be found in every store, from large hypermarkets to small neighborhood stores. But what makes it different and is it really organic?

Labeling of organic products

On each product, which can actually boast of being organic, there are 12 white stars that form the shape of a leaf. This symbol on the packaging indicates that the product meets all standards for organic food produced in the European Union. However, it does not give 100% certainty. There are companies which use fake certificate. Therefore, it is worth learning how to distinguish fake quality marks.

What proves that food is ecological?

Certificate of organic food, which has every such product, means that:

• artificial fertilizers and dyes, pesticides, preservatives and hormones (for animal products) were not used in the production of the goods;
• the product was not genetically modified;
• the article was fertilized with organic products;
• from planting to delivery to the store, the produce was under strict controls;
• the animals were fed with feed of natural origin;
• organic food is richer in minerals and vitamins.

Real or fake certificate – how to recognize it?

We regret to say that producers often deceive their customers. It is enough that they add the words “eco”, “bio” or “natural” on the package and the product seems healthier. Nothing could be further from the truth. Food must have a specific certificate, which certifies its organic origin. It can boast of only those who actually meet all quality standards. The rules of running such farms are very restrictive. Producer with such a certificate is a prestige.

The European Union forces the labeling of organic products produced on its territory with a green leaf

Bold information such as “sugar free”, “natural” or “bio” do not certify the actual state of the product.

How important is organic food in the human diet?

1. Organic produce provides more minerals to the body.
2. Vegetables and fruits such as currants, potatoes, tomatoes and peppers have a higher content of vitamin C. On the other hand, more beta-carotene appears in red, yellow and orange fruits and vegetables.
3. Organic products are easier to store in winter.

Organic food is recommended to everyone. But especially for babies and children, older people, pregnant women, athletes, people suffering from thyroid disease, anemia and cancer. It is an additional source of vitamins. Supports the development of children and fetuses. It increases the efficiency of the body. Moreover, it influences the health of the whole body, thanks to which the fight against cancer is more effective. It also extinguishes other inflammatory conditions. It regulates the hormonal balance, because it does not contain an extra dose of artificial hormones.

Why are organic products more expensive?

According to the market economy, these are higher quality products and according to this policy, the price should be higher. Usually, customers accept that they are paying for quality. In addition, ecological food must meet strict requirements, which are imposed not only by the European Union, but also Polish law. This is followed by inspections of production processes. To meet them, different, more labor-intensive methods of production and care are required. Food is healthier and tastes better.

Organic products are an investment in the future, because we are what we eat.

Therefore, when shopping, it is worth to be guided by what is written on the label, learn about the marks which certify the quality of products, buy from small farms and proven farmers. And the best thing is to grow plants in your own garden. But not everything can be produced.

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