We Know: What Health/Organic/Natural Food MeansWhat is health food?Health foods make claims that they are good for you. According to the FDA, such health claims
'describe a relationship between a food, food component, or dietary supplement ingredient, and reducing risk of a disease or health-related condition'. The FDA authorizes these types of health claims based on an extensive review of the scientific literature, based on strict standards to be sure false claims are not being made.
What is natural food?According to the USDA, a product that contains no artificial ingredient or added color and is only minimally processed (a process which does not fundamentally alter the raw product) may be labeled natural. The label must explain the use of the term natural (such as - no added colorings or artificial ingredients; minimally processed.)
What is organic food?According to the USDA, farmers who emphasize the use of renewable resources and the conservation of soil and water to enhance environmental quality for future generations produce organic food. Organic food is produced without using most conventional pesticides; fertilizers made with synthetic ingredients or sewage sludge; bioengineering; or ionizing radiation, antibiotics, or growth hormones.
What does certified organic mean?Before a product can be labeled "organic," a Government-approved certifier inspects the farm where the food is grown to make sure the farmer is following all the rules necessary to meet USDA organic standards. Are health foods and natural foods also organic?No. These terms are not interchangeable. Other truthful claims, such as free-range, hormone-free, and natural, can still appear on food labels. However, do not confuse these terms with "organic." Only food labeled "organic" has been certified as meeting USDA organic standards. |
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