Two of the most popular words found on a majority of products lining grocery store shelves are “natural” and “organic.” These words alone make up the growing trend of consumers searching for safer, healthier alternatives to their favorite food items. However, many see natural and organic as being one in the same, when in fact, they aren’t. While similar, there are distinct differences that separate these key words. In order to be a more educated consumer, it helps to know the difference between foods labeled “natural” and “organic.”

By definition, food labeled “natural” means that is has not been chemically altered and has been derived from its natural plant or animal source. On the flip side, foods that have been labeled “organic” simply mean that it has been produced, manufactured, and distributed through organic means, which are defined according to the guidelines set by organizations such as the Organic Food Products Act and the United States Department of Agriculture.

There are some people that believe natural and organic foods are one in the same and have no particular preference over which kind they buy. But there are those that will only purchase and consume organic foods, believing they are safer and healthier since they have not come into contact with harmful chemicals, pesticides, herbicides, and preservatives. Others prefer natural foods because they believe such food items are as close to their original state as possible, which means the food contains all of its natural properties and nutrients. Because organic foods are closely monitored by the government, many consumers flock to organic food items and brands in order to guarantee its safety. However, the choice is solely up to each person and regardless of which one you choose, both organic and natural foods are undoubtedly better for you and your family’s health.

While grocery shopping, you’re guaranteed to find an organic or all natural version of most foods, even fruits and vegetables. Certain stores carry organic or natural meat products as well. Since consumers are trying to break away from eating too many processed foods, you can find peanut butter, bread, and frozen food items at your local grocery store or specialty store in natural and organic versions. However, some organic and natural foods tend to be a little bit more expensive, which is important to know beforehand if you have never shopped for such products before.

Skeptics are quick to say that there is no known evidence to strongly support the belief that natural and organic foods are better and healthier for consumption than traditional foods, but many recent medical studies done in the United States have found that organic foods in particular contained higher levels of vitamins and nutrients than non-organic food items. Fans of organic and natural foods also point to the fact that non-organic foods such as vegetables and certain meats are grown or raised in soil that has been chemically treated, resulting in a huge loss of nutrients. This debate may rage on for some time but until then, consumers everywhere have the freedom to decide for themselves whether they prefer regular non-organic foods or if organic and natural food items will be the only ones welcome at the dinner table.

Related Articles
	The Idea behind Organic Wine Because of the public demand for food items that are safe and free of harsh chemicals and pesticides, organic foods have started to crop up everywhere. Many consumers are now turning to organic versions of their favorite meals, beverages, and grocery shopping items. To meet the demand   ...Read more		Holistic Nutrition When it comes to good nutrition, not everybody can manage to stick to a good routine that will benefit them from the inside as well as the outside. If you’re searching for a different way to educate yourself about positive nutritional practices, you may be interested in the concept of holistic   ...Read more