When you look in the egg aisle at the grocery store, you will find plenty of options. You will see large to extra-large varieties, white and brown eggs, as well as organic, free-range and cage-free eggs.
Hens that lay free-range eggs are allowed to spend a significant amount of time outdoors. That translates to more omega-3 fatty acids and vitamins A, D, lutein and zeaxanthin.
Natural and Wholesome
A well-rounded source of sustenance, the egg offers six grams of protein and a host of healthy vitamins and minerals. It contains the antioxidant lutein, which reduces your risk of macular degeneration later in life, vitamin D and omega-3 fatty acids.
In the wake of the Salmonella scare, many Americans have taken a closer look at what's inside their eggs and are choosing organic, free-range or cage-free varieties. While these choices all have merit, some labels can be misleading. For example, "Omega-3 Enriched" doesn't tell you anything beyond what the hen is already being fed, and a label that states "No Antibiotics Used" has nothing to do with how the chicken was treated or what was in her feed.
Look for a USDA Organic, Certified Humane Raised and Handled or Non-GMO Project Verified label to ensure that your eggs are coming from healthy, happy hens who are given enough space to move around and roam. Hens on family-owned and operated farms like Stiebrs Farms can lay Grade AA, large brown eggs while also enjoying the fresh air, sunlight and other natural elements that help them live a wholesome lifestyle.
Healthy and More Sustainable
Many egg companies market free-range, organic and cage-free eggs by claiming they implement more humane management practices with hens that produce healthier, more nutritious eggs. In fact, a MOTHER EARTH NEWS study found that compared to conventional eggs, free-range eggs have lower cholesterol and saturated fat and higher levels of vitamins A and E, beta carotene and polyunsaturated omega-3 fatty acids. They also have higher amounts of Vitamin D, which is known to help maintain strong bones and regulate insulin levels.
However, these labels can get a little fuzzy. For instance, the "cage-free" label means hens aren't housed in cages but they can still be densely packed in barns that don't allow outdoor access. And the USDA's organic label only requires that hens be raised on a certified organic feed. But the "free-range" label implies that hens have some degree of access to the outdoors and eat their natural diet of green plants, insects, worms and grains.
Delicious and Easy to Prepare
With egg cartons labeled as "organic," "cage-free," and 'free range" it can be confusing to know which one to buy. In fact, some labels don't even tell you what the chickens were fed or where they were raised!
Hens that roam free are not only happier and healthier, but their eggs are also tastier. They're richer in vitamins and minerals like choline, vitamin E, and omega-3 fatty acids than conventional supermarket eggs. Plus, they're a great source of naturally occurring vitamin D—perfect for a healthy breakfast on the go.
To enjoy a delicious and easy breakfast, simply boil a few real free-range eggs in a pan of water (be sure that the water covers the eggs) on a high heat until they are cooked through. Enjoy with some buttered toast! You can even freeze boiled eggs, just be sure to place them in the freezer when they are cool and dry. They will keep for up to 12 months that way!
Easy to Find
Unless you have a chicken coop in your backyard or the time and budget to stock up on farm-fresh eggs every week, it’s likely that you’ll end up in the egg aisle at your supermarket. Here, you’ll find an assault of qualifiers and descriptors like Free-Range, Organic and Cage-Free.
In general, cage-free means that hens have the freedom to move around their crate or shed and aren’t confined to the inside of a barn. However, they may not have access to the outdoors or enough space to roam freely.
Organic eggs are from hens fed a diet that is grown without chemical pesticides or herbicides, which is good for you and the environment. Pasture-Raised eggs give hens the most opportunity to roam and forage. One large egg contains 6 grams of protein, and it’s one of the most nutritious and complete sources of sustenance you can eat. It is also a source of omega-3 fatty acids, which regulate blood clotting, reduce inflammation and help with genetic function.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which organic products are most in demand?
Today, organic food is the fastest growing industry. There is still much to be done, even though we have come so far from our roots.
Organic products are the future. They are safer and more cost-effective for consumers.
However, they are also more expensive. That is why we developed the Organic Food Index. We wanted to know which foods are popular today and whether trends are changing.
The results of the study show that organic food has become more popular. Between 2011-2012, nearly half of Americans shopped for organic foods.
The USDA reports that organic production increased 10% last year. Currently, organic food accounts for 9% in the U.S. agricultural production.
Organic food is certainly on the rise but consumers are still not able to afford it. The Organic Trade Association (OTA) reports that organic food retail prices average almost double the price of conventional foods.
The organic food sector is growing faster than other segments of the food supply. If you look closely at the data, it will be apparent that organic food consumption has steadily increased since 2009.
According to OTA however, the volume in supermarkets of organic products grew by 14% from 2010 to 2011.
This increase is due to consumers' demand for healthier foods. It is why organic food sales are growing across all ages.
The younger generation is however leading the charge for organic food. Millennials are twice as likely to buy organic food compared to baby boomers. Young adults below 35 years of age account for 25%.
What is an organic food manufacturer?
Organic food producers use organic methods to grow their products. These foods include fruits as well vegetables, grains and dairy products.
Organic food production takes place on farms where crops are nurtured naturally. This includes soil preparation, crop rotation, and pest management.
USDA (United States Department of Agriculture), has strict requirements for agricultural products to be certified organic.
These guidelines are designed to ensure consumers have access to safe, healthy and nutritious food.
The benefits of eating organic range from lower levels of pesticide residues and heavy metal contamination to higher nutrient content and better flavour.
USDA certified organic products must bear the USDA Certified Organic label.
This certification means that the product meets standards established by the National Organic Program.
Organic food can help us eat better and protect our environment.
Organic farming techniques help preserve natural resources such as water and land. Organic farming also helps to reduce greenhouse gases emissions, which are responsible for climate change.
Organic agriculture is more sustainable and uses less chemicals.
Because harmful gases such as ammonia or nitrates are less likely in the atmosphere, it also improves air quality.
There are many forms of organic farming.
Conventional farming involves the use artificial inputs such as fertilizers and pesticides.
Regenerative farming includes compost, cover crops, as well as green manures that improve soil health. It encourages biodiversity.
Agroecology promotes healthy relationships between humans and plants.
Permaculture promotes self sufficiency through the creation of systems that imitate nature.
How do you know if your food is organic?
Ask any chef and he will tell you that fresh ingredients are the most important thing. We feel better when our food is good.
The same applies to our food. When we buy organics, we know exactly where it came from and how it was grown. We also know it was not treated using harmful chemicals.
Organic foods are produced without using synthetic pesticides, fertilizers, hormones, antibiotics, or genetically modified organisms (GMO). These substances are not allowed for organic farmers.
Growing organic crops is an art. There are many safe ways to grow them.
Many people refer to organic agriculture as sustainable agriculture. This means that organic farming does not use as many resources as conventional methods, but it still provides the essential nutrients needed to sustain life.
Crop rotation, crop rotation, cover cropping and composting manure are all organic farming methods. These techniques reduce soil erosion and increase water quality.
They reduce the amount of chemical runoff that can enter waterways. Local farms can be found in cities that raise organic produce.
Two types of certification programs are available for organic products. The USDA National Organic Program certifies one, while independent certifying agencies certification the other. Both require strict adherence of organic standards.
Certified organic products may bear the USDA seal or the symbol O Seal, which indicates that the product meets federal requirements.
Why is organic food important
Organic produce is vital for our health. It is the best option to ensure that we eat nutritious food. Not only is it better for us, but it's also more environmentally friendly because it doesn't rely on pesticides and fertilizers.
Organic farming relies on natural methods to cultivate crops, without the use of harmful chemicals. This results in fewer environmental pollutants and makes organic farming safer. Organic food is a way to help the environment and protect yourself.
But organic food offers more than just health benefits. We all know the negative effects that processed foods can have on our health. Organic fruits and vegetables aren’t subject to chemicals spray. They taste fresher, look better and last longer.
Organic food is so important. Because it's not only healthy for you, it's healthier for the world.
Statistics
- As for organic meat, regulations require that animals be raised in living conditions that accommodate their natural behaviours (like the ability to graze on pasture), fed 100% organic feed and forage, and not administered antibiotics or hormones. (usda.gov)
- Cosmetic brands such as Laurel and Rose Mira are 100 percent organic and have a wide array of skincare products. (en.wikipedia.org)
- To provide the highest quality products and services to every customer, with a dedicated workforce that puts the customer first and takes the extra step to achieve 100% customer satisfaction and loyalty. (hollinsorganic.com)
- Brands participating in this challenge are committed to using 100 percent sustainable cotton by 2025.[5] (en.wikipedia.org)
External Links
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- Occupational Pesticide Exposures and the Cancer Risk: A Review. Journal of Toxicology and Environmental Health. Part. B. Vol 15, Issue 4.
- Genetically modified foods: Safety, Risks and Public Concerns - A Review - Journal of Food Science and Technology
How To
What happens when you switch from conventional products to organic?
Organic products do not contain synthetic fertilizers or hormones. They are derived from clean water and animals that have been free to roam. The term "organic" means they do not contain any chemicals or additives. This product is natural and does not contain any harmful substances.
The term "natural" refers to how food is grown. This term is often used to refer to foods that are not processed into final forms (such as fruits). Natural foods are usually fresher than processed foods, as they haven’t been exposed to heat, radiation, chemical preservatives, or other treatments. Some people don't believe that natural means healthy. Experts aren't sure if there is much to be different between organic and traditional foods. Both types of food have been tested for safety and quality. Organic produce is safer than conventionally produced produce.
Most grocery stores now carry organic meats and poultry. For organic meats, poultry, eggs and seafood, you should check with your local supermarket. Some companies offer only organic products while others have separate sections. You should look for USDA Certified Organic, Non GMO Project Verified (Biodynamic Association Certified), Rainforest Alliance Certified, and other certifications.
If you are pregnant, or nursing, these products should not be eaten. Pesticides have been shown to harm infants and unborn babies.
Resources:
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