Press and Sun Bulletin
Published July 30, 2007
The first step is clarifying the difference between Certified Organic Foods, Organic Foods, and those not identified as either. Certified Organic foods are grown without the use of pesticides, synthetic fertilizers or sewage sludge and haven't been genetically engineered or irradiated. A product listed as organic contains only 95 percent organic ingredients. Foods without either label may be treated with pesticides, synthetic fertilizers, sewage sludge and may be genetically engineered or irradiated. Producers of organic food are not allowed to give their animals antibiotics to stimulate growth.
Some fruits and vegetables are more susceptible to pesticide treatment. These include peaches, which always carry pesticide residue in part to their soft skin. To find out more information on which produce is less contaminated with pesticides, contact the nonprofit, Washington-based Environmental Working Group.
Humans have contributed many toxins to the eco-system; plastics full of dioxins are spread easily through the air. Years ago, when the concept of plastics was first identified, the outlook was very positive for what this lightweight, waterproof material was capable of -- lighter jars to store food products in, pipes that transported water and other necessities. What doesn't make sense is that we continue to manufacture plastics now knowing their negative impact on the environment and on human and animal life. Unfortunately, all life forms and our quality of life are affected by the decisions of manufacturers and consumers of these products.
In 1962, Rachel Carson warned the public of the dangers of pesticide use. In her book, "Silent Spring," she documented several instances where the pesticides have killed many other life forms that were not targeted. Many of the pesticides at this time were being used to stop Dutch Elm disease and treat farmers crops.
When people spray their lawns to get rid of "unwanted" weeds, they affect the circle of life for all of us. The earthworms, birds and rabbits that feed on our lawns are passed along on the food chain. In addition, our domestic pets and children who play in these yards may be adversely affected.
People who work with pesticides have higher rates of Parkinson's disease, leukemia, myeloma and non-Hodgkin's lymphoma, and asthma in addition to cancers of the lips, stomach, skin, brain and prostate. A study done by Agriculture Health states that men who apply pesticides for a living in Iowa have a 41 percent increased risk of prostate cancer. Pesticides are also linked to problems with our endocrine system, which includes the thyroid.
Pesticides are poisons. When given to animals in high doses, they can affect the nervous system, cause cancers and birth defects. Consuming organic foods is healthier for the environment and for people. It's a conscious way of living and the right thing to do. Many people who eat organic products are also recycling, reusing, composting and using environmentally friendly products in their homes and gardens. It is a way of life that makes sense.
Eating organic foods supports all life forms; it's good for the soil, air and rivers that pesticides pollute, and it tastes great, too!
