Is it "natural," "non-organic" or "certified organic?"

In my quest for all things healthy and "natural", I have come to realize that what potential customers are told in an offer, often conceals details that should be known before the consumer can make an informed choice.

That's why, when I came upon an article by Ed Mass of the website "Yes It's Organic" my eyes were opened to some meaningful terminology emerging in the world of all things "green." For openers, I found out the difference between the terms "natural" vs. "certified organic" in how cotton is grown, for instance. Cotton, of course, is thought of as being "natural", although that does not mean that it lacks toxicity. Maybe "natural" should more correctly be termed "non-organic."

This is what I found the difference to be: "Non-organic" (natural) crops are typically sprayed with insecticides, herbicides, etc. causing multiple insults to the soil, the environment, and the crop itself. I learned that these sprayed toxins result in volatile organic compounds released into the air, where they contribute to green house gases, and where they not only harm the health of the soil but also pollute ground water, lakes and streams. Most of all, concerning the customer directly, this sprayed toxic cocktail is also retained in the crops as they grow and are harvested and finally, you guessed it, there is a great chance of you wearing the residues in your clothing.

It's scary stuff and once you understand the downside, you can better value the other, eco-friendly alternative of "certified organic." Here no toxins such as fertilizers and pesticides are used; instead, organic matter and crop rotation is used to build strong and nutrient-rich soil not resulting in negatives either to the environment or to you.

That sounds like win-win to me; I'll go for that, and I'll henceforth examine the value when I hear "natural."

If you'd like to read this informative article by Ed Mass, CEO of Yes It's Organic, in its entirety, click on the icon below and after viewing the short video, look for "Articles" on the lower left side panel.  It's a real eye-opener. Or just go directly to the article.
Britt

Yes It's Organic Video Story in Less Than 60 Seconds