Label Lingo: Breaking Down Terms like “Organic,” “Non-GMO,” and “Natural”

Hey there foodies! 👋

Are you confused by all the labels on your food?🍴 Words like “organic,” “non-GMO,” and “natural” may sound good, but what do they really mean? To help you navigate the label lingo, we’ve broken down some of the most common terms you’ll see on your food.

🌱 Organic

The term “organic” refers to how food is grown and processed. Organic food is grown without synthetic fertilizers and pesticides, and without the use of genetically modified organisms (GMOs). Additionally, organic food cannot be irradiated, meaning that it has not been exposed to radiation.

🍅 To qualify as organic, produce must be grown and harvested according to strict USDA guidelines. Look for the USDA Organic seal on food packaging to ensure that the food meets these standards.

🚫 Non-GMO

Non-GMO means that the food does not contain genetically modified organisms. GMOs are plants or animals whose DNA has been altered in a lab. Some people are concerned about the potential effect of GMOs on the environment and human health, but the science is still inconclusive.

🌽 To ensure that a food is non-GMO, look for the “Non-GMO Project Verified” seal on the packaging. This label signifies that the food has been independently tested and verified to be free of GMOs.

🌿 Natural

The term “natural” is not regulated by the FDA, so it can mean different things depending on the company making the product. Generally, a food labeled “natural” should not contain artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives. However, the use of natural flavors and other additives is allowed.

🍏 Take the “natural” label with a grain of salt and make sure to read the ingredient list carefully. Look for whole foods that have not been heavily processed.

📝 Conclusion

Understanding food labels can be tricky, but knowing what the terms mean can help you make informed decisions about what to eat. When it comes to eating healthy, the most important thing is to prioritize whole, unprocessed foods. Look for foods that are certified organic and non-GMO, and read ingredient lists carefully to avoid artificial additives.

👩‍🍳 Happy eating!