What does “organic” mean?
Organic is a food production philosophy. The aim is to grow and harvest plants and raise and process livestock in ways that are harmonious with the environment.

“It means that as much as possible, crops and livestock are raised without the additions of things like synthetic herbicides, pesticides and growth hormones,” says Kathy Bosse, a new ventures specialist with Alberta Agriculture and Rural Development. “Organic eliminates most of our man-made production inputs.”

On December 14, 2008, Canada’s Organic Products Regulations come into effect. These regulations are federal law, and you’ll know a product complies with these regulations if it bears the Canada Organic logo. The regulations also demand that organic products be certified for interprovincial and international trade.

“The legislation is very similar to the voluntary standard already in place in Canada,” says Bosse, explaining that many organic producers are already certified under this standard and other international standards.

“The (federal regulations) were driven by people within the industry who said, ‘I want to be able to easily certify my product and ship it throughout the world,’” Bosse adds. “It gives the industry a united front.”

What does “natural” mean?
You may also see “natural” labels on some products. Be aware that the “natural” label does not mean the same thing as organic.

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“People who direct-market their food (for example at farmers’ markets) may use that term,” says Bosse. “Everybody has their own definition (of natural), which is why you have to ask.”

“Natural doesn’t carry any legal definition,” adds Jacqueline Jumpsen, a registered dietitian at the Alberta Institute for Human Nutrition. “It might mean a food that’s been minimally processed or preservative-free, but just because the word ”natural” appears on the label does not mean the product is nutritious.”

Are organic foods healthier?

Pesticides
Some people believe that synthetic pesticide residue is harmful, so they buy organic foods to avoid consuming this residue.

However, there may be synthetic pesticide residue on organic foods too. Jumpsen says, “The residue levels are a lot lower than conventionally produced foods, but (pesticides) are still present.”

One reason for synthetic pesticide residue is that residue can come from pesticides that were used in the past and are now cycling through the environment in the air, soil or water.

It’s also important to recognize that the levels of pesticide on conventionally produced Canadian and American food are within ranges that the Canadian and American federal governments consider safe for human consumption.

“For example, the FDA (U.S. Food and Drug Administration) has said that typical human dietary exposure (to pesticides) poses minimal risks to humans. So the benefits of reducing exposure to pesticides in the diet by consuming more organic produce appear to be insignificant,” says Jumpsen, citing resources from the Institute of Food Technologists.

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Nutrition value
Another reason people buy organic is that they believe organic foods are more nutritious.

“The research that’s been done on this is not conclusive,” says Jumpsen, “but the research so far suggests that there’s no difference (in the nutritional quality of organic food).”

Also, like conventionally produced foods, organic foods can be high in unhealthier fat, sugar, salt or calories. Examples include organic potato chips and granola bars.

Shop and eat wisely
Here are some tips for shopping and eating:

Consider the price. Organic foods are typically more expensive than conventionally produced foods. If you want organic but can’t afford it, buy conventionally produced foods so you don’t miss out on the health benefits of important food groups such as fruits and vegetables.

Read labels carefully. Organic foods can be high in fat, sugar, salt or calories, just like conventionally produced foods.

Don’t confuse natural with organic. Natural does not mean organic. Unlike the term organic, the term natural is not regulated, and definitions vary.

Wash all fresh produce carefully. The Food Safety Information Line recommends that you thoroughly wash fruits and vegetables under cool running water. This will remove pesticide residue. Use a vegetable scrub brush to gently scrub produce with rough surfaces such as cantaloupe, citrus fruit, potatoes and squash. Special rinses or soap-based washes are not necessary and can leave unwanted residues on foods.

For many Canadians, buying organic has become an important consideration. Canada’s new legislation will help to ensure that organic foods meet strict production standards.

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However, it’s important to remember that just because a food is organic, it may not be a healthier choice than foods that are conventionally produced. By being informed and shopping wisely, you can make the most of your choices, organic or not.

“Eating a well-balanced diet is what’s most important,” says Jumpsen, “whether it comes from organic foods or conventionally produced foods or both.”

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Learn more
Organic Agriculture: Getting Started
Information from Alberta Agriculture and Rural Development on joining the organic industry.

Canadian Food Inspection Agency Subject: Organic Products
Up-to-date information on the regulation of organic foods in Canada, including a link to Canada’s Organic Products Regulations that go into effect in December 2008.

Canadian Organic Growers
Information about the organic food industry in Canada.

Food Safety Information Society Fact Sheets
Fact sheets for learning more about how to safely handle fresh fruits, vegetables and other foods.