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If you're a parent, you've probably come across ongoing debates regarding the term "organic" and what should go into your child's body.
But, what about organic versus non-GMO? A recent study from Perrigo Nutritionals revealed that more than half of moms didn't know
that organic is inherently non-GMO.
So, what's the real difference? Simply put, organic is always non-GMO, but, unlike non-GMO, products labeled
organic also guarantee:
* No use of toxic pesticides or chemical/synthetic fertilizers.
* No use of antibiotics or synthetic hormones, articial avors, colors and preservatives.
* Support for organic farming practices and animal health and welfare.
* Regulated by the federal government under the USDA (non-GMO products are not regulated and can vary based on
the company or third party making the claim).
"It's important to understand the difference between these labels so you can make the right nutritional decisions for you family," says
Jessica Turner, best-selling author and founder of the Mom Creative blog.
Looking beyond the non-GMO label doesn't have to be an all-or-nothing approach, especially since purchasing all organic can add up
quick. As a mother of three, Turner believes the following products are worth the extra splurge for organic instead of just non-GMO for
your child.
Baby Food
As a child starts eating solids, many organizations such as The Environmental Working Group recommend always going organic when it
comes to the "dirty dozen" such as apples, bell peppers, peaches, etc. to avoid pesticides. Purchasing baby food jars or packets? Make sure
you look for the USDA Certied Organic label, not just a non-GMO certied label to avoid all those chemicals.
Milk
Milk is a nutrient powerhouse when it comes to your child's nutrition with vitamin D, calcium and protein, but unfortunately it can
sometimes contain not-so-good ingredients. Organic milk brands like Organic Valley have absolutely no antibiotics, synthetic
hormones, toxic pesticides or GMO anything. Going organic also supports a better life for the cows since they have access to pastures
(another thing not guaranteed by only purchasing non-GMO).
Infant Formula
According to the Perrigo Nutritionals study, 43 percent of moms said they purchased organic foods for their babies when they started
eating solids, but only 10 percent purchased organic infant formula. So why not choose organic for your baby from the very beginning?
Choosing organic brands like Earth's Best or Honest may be worth the extra investment since it will ensure you are avoiding pesticides
and hormones- something not guaranteed by just the non-GMO label.
Skin Care
Skin care products that go on a baby's skin, like lotion, diaper cream, shampoo and soap, are being absorbed into their bloodstream.
Since their skin is more porous than adults, products from organic/natural lines such as Burt's Bees or Seventh Generation may be worth
the extra splurge to ensure your child is being exposed to the least number of chemicals as possible.
At the end of the day, if you're not sure, err on the side of buying organic since organic is always non-GMO, plus more. For more
information on organic versus non-GMO, visit www.choose-organic.com.