How can I identify genuinely organic products?

Identifying authentic organic products involves checking several verification marks. The USDA Organic seal is your first signal that the product contains at least 95% organic ingredients. Check for this label on product packaging. Certification codes offer an additional layer of authentication. They signify the product has undergone inspections by third-party certifiers.

The certification codes validate that inspections have been thorough. These alphanumeric identifiers appear adjacent to the USDA seal. Examples include CCOF or Quality Assurance International, each of which has a staff member who indicates an accrediting agency. Unfamiliar codes can always be verified online through the official USDA database. This prevents counterfeit products.

Imported organic products deserve additional scrutiny. Search for equivalency certifications, such as Ecocert or Canada Organic, as required by the EU. These certify that product standards are comparable. Verification of organic certification can be checked instantly online at the USDA INTEGRITY Database. Enter the certification code to verify the current status of the certification. This avoids certifications that are either expired or revoked.

Steer clear of the conventional marketing traps when shopping for organic products. The term " natural means nothing in terms of the organic standards. A non-GMO label is different than an organic certification. Some companies have green packaging as a gimmick that implies organic when it is not certified. Always give preference to the USDA seal over other marketing slogans. Your diligence will ensure that you obtain the genuine organic quality you seek.

Read the full article: Organic Food Advantages: Essential Benefits Revealed