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You are what you eat...The old adage has never been more true. A wide variety of whole, unprocessed, uncontaminated, nutrient-dense organic foods are the key to health and vitality. They support the immune system, combat disease and provide energy. But such foods are scarce in a food production world where giant industrial farms apply biosolids, synthetic fertilizers and pesticides on a single genetically modified crop, and our children think food comes encased in plastic containers ready for the microwave.
When you purchase produce in a grocery store, you've probably noticed those stickers with a number code which provides pricing and other information for the retailer. You can make better choices about the produce you purchase if your understand what the codes mean. A four digit sticker indicates that the item is conventionally grown, not organic. A five digit sticker beginning with the numeral 9 indicates that the produce is organic, and a five digit sticker beginning with an 8 indicates the produce is a genetically modified fruit or vegetable.
For example:
4011 conventional banana
94011 organic banana
84011 genetically modified banana
The way in which we prepare and store food can diminish its healthful qualities. Plastic containers, treated cookware and chemical-laden packaging can all negatively impact food and beverages.
Please click on any of the links below to find more information, helpful hints, products and other resources about exposures in food.
Food and Drink
Acrylamide
Water
Bottled Water
Food Storage, Packaging and Preparation
BPA (Bisphenol-A)
Phthalates
Perfluorinated compounds
Non-stick cookware
There is a wealth of information about choosing and preparing healthy food. Seek out farmers' markets, CSA programs and retail outlets that sell locally-grown, organic foods.
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