Organic, GMOs, and Processed Foods

organic farming functions

improved soil and water quality, decreased pollution, maintains healthy living environments, promotes farming resource self-sustainability

organic criteria

no synthetic fertilizers or pesticides, no radiation or chemicals, no genetic technology, no antibiotics or growth hormones

100% organic

produced with completely organic practices

organic

at least 95% organic practices

made with organic

at least 70% organic practices

includes organic ingredients

less than 70% organic practices

natural

no artificial colors or flavors

free-range

livestock provided pasture

organic nutrient levels

small to moderate increases

organic toxic metals

lower cadmium levels in grains

organic shelf life

shorter time before spoiling

conventional farming benefits

cost, manageability, preservation

processed food

food that’s been altered in some way from how it was harvested

processed food problems

added salt, sugar, and/or fats; consumer doesn’t control what’s in the product

genetically modified organisms (GMOs)

crops or livestock altered to resist disease/pests, increase crop yield and quality, and survive problematic environmental events

are GMOs safe/better?

safe - yes, better - in cost and food security

calories

units of energy provided by a food source

serving size

quantity of food typically consumed at a time

servings per container

quantity of servings in one package

% daily value

amount of a nutrient in one serving compared to recommended daily intake

ingredients

components of food listed in amount order

contains

special recognition of common allergens in food item

may contain

processed in a facility with the common allergenss

superfoods

foods with great nutrient density

supplements

products with a high concentration of particular nutrients to support adequacy

workout formulas

linked to higher workout performance

workout formula problems

doesn’t replace diet, includes additives, includes C4 - linked to heart problems and dehydration

energy shots/drinks

high in sugar and caffeine (113-240 mg/drink) to activate fight or flight response

energy drink problems

no nutritional value, can cause heart irregularities, sleep disturbances, dehydration, and nervous system impacts