Earth Day has just passed and Farmers’ Market season is here…what better time to kick off the season by considering reasons to shop organic? Although they tend to be a little more expensive, their prices are reasonable and their health benefits for us and our environment are simply nonnegotiable.

1. Free from exposure to harmful chemicals – Many of the foods we buy at the grocery store are…”dolled up” and their availability depends on consumer demand. For example, tomatoes are available year round because they are picked when they are still green and then colored with ethylene gas to appear ripe (Food, Inc.).
2. Environmentally-friendly – Resources are used efficiently, do not damage environment around them and viable in the long term, thus, significantly benefits crops and the health of those who consume them.
3. Support local farmers – The very people who know farming like the back of their hand, and are willing to put in the extra effort to provide us with optimal quality, all-natural products.
4. Promote organic agriculture – Although organic products are a bit more expensive, think of it as investing in your health and the environment of those who come after us. After all, “We are what we eat.”

To find to find farmers’ markets, family farms, and other sources of sustainably grown food in your area, where you can buy produce, local meats, and many other goodies, click here.

Research assitance provided by Monica Lobo, RD.