The Baby Mum-Mum Blog The Baby Mum-Mum BlogBy Colleen Hurley, RD, Certified Kid’s Nutrition Specialist
If you feel confused by the ever-changing lingo now seen on food labels you are not alone. We understand the benefits of organic foods, especially organic baby food, yet it can be overwhelming to decipher which foods to choose. Much of the organic food currently in the marketplace has been certified whereas standards previously varied through either private or government certifiers. Not all foods are created, or labeled, equally so it is important to become an educated consumer.
Organic certification in the United States in governed by the National Organic Standards Board (NOSB), a division of the US Department of Agriculture (USDA). Under supervision of the NOSB is the National Organic Program (NOP) which implements, develops and regulates national handling, production and labeling requirements for organic agricultural products. In addition, the NOP accredits certifying agents who inspect organic food production and handling to ensure they meet USDA standards. The NOSB meets several times a year to stay on top of the evolving food production methods.
Before a food is allowed to bear the USDA organic food label; the farm, production methods, and the food must be inspected by a government approved certifier. USDA organic foods cannot:
The USDA seal is not found on all organic foods, as it is a voluntary option for food producers. However, companies are subject to a $10,000 fine for labeling a food organic knowing it does meet USDA standards. In addition, foods must contain at least 95% organically produced ingredients in order to have the USDA stamp. Here is a guide to terms often seen on food labels:
The word natural or the term “natural ingredients” is not synonymous with organic. The USDA limits the use of “natural” on food labels to meat and poultry products. To use the term natural on a food label, the food must not contain any artificial flavorings, colorings, preservatives, or any synthetic ingredients. Natural foods must also be “minimally processed” which the USDA defines as a process that does not alter the raw product. Even though the USDA can hold companies accountable for misuse of this claim, there is no standardization system in place. It is important to read the ingredients carefully as “natural” foods often contain some not so natural ingredients.
For more labeling information visit:
National Geographic provides a “green” buyers guide
Gaiam defines other label terms including “free range” and “cage free”