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More and more people are taking interest in what they eat and how it’s produced, seeking foods that are better for their families and the environment. Here are a few key terms that will make it easier for you to make the best choices.

Organic
Organic produce is grown without synthetic fertilizers, herbicides and pesticides. Organic meat and dairy livestock receive not antibiotics or added hormones and are raised on organic feed. Organic products never use genetic engineering or irradiation.

Organic farming promotes healthy soil, biodiversity and the conservation of water and ecological systems. It helps keep chemicals out of our air, earth and water. And organic farmers focus on using renewable resources.

The US Department of Agriculture (USDA) strictly enforces proper organic production and handling. The following categories are also certified by qualified third parties. By law only those products which fall into the first two categories can carry the USDA seal. Look for it when you shop.

100% Organic
Products that contain all organically produced ingredients.

USDA Certified Organic
Products that contain 95% or more organic ingredients. (The small amount of conventional ingredients are approved by the USDA National Organic Program because of limited availability of comparable organic products.)

Made With Organic Ingredients
When you see this phrase on the front of a product, that means it’s made with 70-95% organic ingredients. By reading the ingredient listing, you’ll be able to tell exactly what is organic.

Some products may have a portion of organic ingredients that’s less than 70%. You’ll find their organic ingredients listed on the nutritional panel

All Natural
Foods that are minimally processed and contain no artificial flavors, preservatives or sweeteners.

Earth Friendly
Produce in such a way to minimize any negative impact on the environment. Good examples of early friendly products are those that are biodegradable, chemical-free or made of recycled waste.

Vegetarian
Foods derived from plant sources, such as fruits, grains, legumes and nuts. These can contain egg and dairy products.

Vegan
Solely from plant origin; absolutely no animal ingredients or byproducts such as eggs, dairy products or honey.

Thanks to Publix Super Markets for helpting to educate us on what is and is not organic.

Visit www.pubic.com/greenwise for additional helpful information and be sure to look for organic products in their stores.