ust joined us? Be sure to read Organic Food 101 to find out the answers to your basic questions about organic foods.

In the second part of this series we will explore some deeper issues of organic foods including purchasing, certification, cost issues, and how to get more information on organics.

	USDA Organic certification is an expensive process and most small farms simply can’t afford it.

Where can I buy organic foods?

Just about everywhere, but not quite. Most major grocery stores chains, natural markets, and farmers’ markets offer a selection of organic produce and processed organic foods. But to have the most direct impact on your diet and your local community, shop at a farmers’ markets as often as possible. Haven’t found a farmers’ market yet? Visit Local Harvest and the Eat Well Guide to find the many outlets for local foods in your community.

Should I buy only from “certified organic” vendors at farmers’ markets?

Not necessarily. USDA Organic certification is an expensive process and most small farms simply can’t afford it. Just because they aren’t certified doesn’t mean they aren’t doing great things, organically speaking. Speak with the farmers at your local market about: the types of seeds they use, methods for managing pests, how they strengthen their soil, and other eco-conscious operating procedures. If you find a vendor that is certified organic and you like the look of their goods, feel free to buy from them–but don’t dismiss the other farmers until you take a few minutes to chat with them.

How can I be sure foods labeled organic really are organic?

As mentioned in Organic Food 101, the term “organic” is heavily regulated in the United States. The USDA has an organic certification program that guarantees organic seeds, growing methods, and healthier animal care methods.

Organic Processed Foods Labels

For “100% organic” or “organic” (which means 95% of ingredients are certified organic) foods, just look for the USDA Organic seal. Other terms using the word “organic” are also regulated by the USDA.

The labeling phrase “made with organic ingredients” means that at least 70% of ingredients must be certified organic. If the term “individual organic ingredients” is in the ingredients list, the product can contain any number of certified organic ingredients, but organics are less than 70% of the total ingredients.

Organic Produce Labels

You probably will not find a USDA organic label on fruits and vegetables, but you will find another numbered sticker on the produce. If that number starts with a 9 and has 5 digits, it’s organic.

Organic Meat, Dairy, and Seafood Labels

For meats and dairy, the USDA organic seal applies. Seafood, on the other hand, is a different story. There is no such thing as “certified organic” seafood—the USDA has yet to establish certification guidelines. There are a number of non-profit groups that have developed their own seafood regulations, such as the Marine Stewardship Council and Friend of the Sea,but the regulations vary. It is extremely difficult to determine the enviromentla impact of seafood harvesting, farming and consumption. Our advice? Talk to your fish seller. If they don’t have the answers you need, shop elsewhere.

Are organic foods worth the higher price?

Undoubtedly yes. When you hit the cash register, it’s easy to see why folks question the cost of organics, but you have to think about where that money is going. It impacts the way farmers and food processors make the goods which we, in turn, eat. It doesn’t just impact the planet either; it directly affects you and your family. Think of buying organic foods an investment in your family’s health and wellbeing. Those cheap foods have hidden costs that impact the health of our food supply, the planet, and its inhabitants.

And then, there’s the “dirty dozen”, a dozen foods that should always be purchased organic due to their increased exposure and sensitive to pesticides and other chemicals:

• Peaches
• Apples
• Sweet bell peppers
• Celery
• Nectarines
• Strawberries
• Cherries
• Pears
• Grapes (imported)
• Spinach
• Lettuce
• Potatoes

For meat and dairy, you should always buy organic–it is never worth being exposed to hormones and extra antibiotics just to save a few dollars.