How Do You Know If It's Really Organic?

As described on the Agricultural Marketing Service site: "Organic production is a system that is managed in accordance with the Organic Foods Production Act (OFPA) of 1990 (PDF) and regulations in Title 7, Part 205 of the Code of Federal Regulations to respond to site-specific conditions by integrating cultural, biological, and mechanical practices that foster cycling of resources, promote ecological balance, and conserve biodiversity. The National Organic Program (NOP) develops, implements, and administers national production, handling, and labeling standards."

So what does this mean for you and your family and/or household? If you see this symbol, you know it wasn't just handed out to anyone. The company had to apply and go through rigorous testing to be able to put this seal on their foods/items. They must be certified by State or private entity which has been accredited by the USDA (United States Department of Agricultural). Any agricultural product that meets the third party or State Certification Requirements, may be considered organic and carry the organic seal of approval.

So who approves? There is a board which consists of four farmers/growers, two handlers and processors, one retailer, one scientist, three consumer/public interest advocates, three environmentalists, and one USDA accredited certifying agent, who sits on various committees. Members come from all four U.S. regions. Each board member serves a 5 year term. The first board member was appointed in 1992 by then Secretary Edward Madigan.

Whew, now the legal stuff is out of the way. Why should you really go organic? Most products today are made with so many chemicals our bodies can't function properly when exposed. Side effects, which are most common, include migraine headaches, asthma, body aches, muscle soreness, common cold or flu, skin irritation and breakouts, mood swings, just to name a few. And what is the first thing Americans do when these symptoms come about? They run to the doctor for a prescription drug, which in many cases, will cause more side effects. It's a never ending cycle.

I have attempted going organic in the past. But this time it's serious. I am taking my health and putting it under my control. I am doing whatever I have to in order to protect my home from harmful chemicals. YHH will be introducing more organic type products and re-introducing those which we have tested in the past.

If you have any questions about products or are looking for something specific, you can always leave me a comment on the home page. If you are an email subscriber, simply reply back and I will receive your email direct.

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