These days, you see the term ‘organic’ on everything from shaving gel to energy bars. So it’s important to understand what that word means, and what it doesn’t. Organic has been defined as “…a form of agriculture that relies on crop rotation, green manure, compost, biological pest control, and mechanical cultivation to maintain soil productivity and control pests, excluding or strictly limiting the use of synthetic fertilizers and synthetic pesticides, plant growth regulators, livestock feed additives, and genetically modified organisms.” (source: Wikipedia)
It is generally accepted that reduced chemicals and pesticides in food is beneficial to human health, while reduced synthetic fertilizers, pesticides and genetically-modified organisms in the biosphere (at the growing stage) is better for the environment.
The best way to ensure a claim of ‘organic’ is to look for certification from a third party. This means that a recognized association has researched the product and put their seal of approval on the organic quality of the source.
Some organic certifications you’ll find on London Drugs products include:
USDA Organic
British Columbia Certified Organic
Oregon Tilth Certified Organic
California Certified Organic Farmers
Soil Association
OCPP / ProCert
QMI
Quality Assurance International
BDIH – Certified Natural Cosmetics
(Click on the links above to learn more about the methodology and criteria of each)
Look for these certifications on products like Lavera Cosmetics/Skincare, (BDIH Certified) Organic Wear Cosmetics, (Certified by Eco-Cert) and Kicking Horse Coffee, (Certified organic by QMI)
Now, just because something is organic, that doesn’t mean it’s necessarily good for you. And vice versa. (A non-organic carrot is probably better for you than an organic chocolate bar) Also, organic may only apply to certain ingredients used in production, from oils to grains to cotton.
So whether you believe in natural farming, like the idea of less pesticides in your diet, or just like the sound of it, get to know your organics. Chances are you’ll be seeing a lot more of them in the future.
