The Benefits of Organic Eating

With the rise of allergies and illnesses around the world, consumers are looking closer at where their food is coming from. Some are even seeking organic meals, an option gaining popularity.

According to the 2014 Gallup study, 45% of Americans are actively seeking organic foods. But, what does organic mean? Why must we eat organically? And most importantly, what are the consequences if we don’t?

According to Organic.org, “Organic produce and other ingredients are grown without the use of pesticides, synthetic fertilizers, sewage sludge, genetically modified organisms [(GMOs)], or ionizing radiation. Animals that produce meat, poultry, eggs, and dairy products do not take antibiotics or growth hormones.”

Babar Dia, manager for organic fruits and vegetables at Whole Foods market in Kentlands, Maryland, wanted to manage organic produce, because he is very passionate about organic foods and cares about consumers’ health. According to Dia , it’s important to eat organically because, “there is a chance of pesticides and chemicals on your food, and it can harm your body.”

According to the Toxics Action Center, “pesticides have been linked to a wide range of human health hazards, ranging from short-term impacts such as headaches and nausea to chronic impacts like cancer, reproductive harm, and endocrine disruption.”

Freshman criminology major Isela Hernández eats organically to avoid the dangers of GMOs.

She said, “I think it’s making peoples’ stomachs more sensitive and people are getting a lot of allergies now.”

Hernandez was raised on organic foods and always notices a difference in taste.

She said, “The non-organic ones don’t have the same natural sweet taste to them and I don’t feel as filled up.”

The European Union, Australia, Japan, and 24 other countries have banned GMOs because of the public health risks and environmental concerns, but GMO foods still remain unlabeled in the United States. According to the Institute for Responsible Technology,“numerous health problems increased after GMOs were introduced in 1996. The percentage of Americans with three or more chronic illnesses jumped from 7% to 13% in just nine years; food allergies skyrocketed, and disorders such as autism, reproductive disorders, digestive problems, and others are on the rise.”

Kweli Powell, a graduate student in science education, switched to organic eating after she obtained several allergies from processed foods. “I do feel good and much better,” she continued, “[Above all], I think it’s important to follow the wisdom of our ancestors […] I like the philosophy of doing what our indigenous ancestors did to stay in harmony with nature.”