10 Things Health Food Stores Won't Tell You

What comes to mind when you hear the word “organic”? Despite the fact that the U.S. Department of Agriculture laid down standards in 2002 for what does and does not constitute organic food, consumers still seem to be confused. In a 2005 survey sponsored by Austin, Tex.–based Whole Foods Market, 72 percent of respondents said they believe organics contain more nutrients than conventional food. In fact, evidence for extra nutrients in organics is debatable.

So what does organic really mean? Produce is grown without the use of most synthetic pesticides, genetic modification, irradiation, or fertilizer made with synthetic ingredients or sewage sludge. Organic meat comes from livestock that has never been treated with antibiotics or growth hormones and has been given organic feed free of animal by-products.

Though the Food and Drug Administration monitors conventional produce to ensure that pesticide levels aren’t toxic, it’s the cumulative effect of small amounts that concerns some people. The Environmental Working Group compiles a list of “dirty dozen” produce that retains the most pesticide residue according to FDA and USDA tests. You can see the list, which includes apples, strawberries, and potatoes, at www.foodnews.org.