Lower Pesticide Exposure Documented for Organic Farmers, Elevated for Others
Published in Environment International, a study utilizing silicone wristbands provides a snapshot of chemical exposure in over 600 participants across 10 European countries. Using the wristbands as passive and noninvasive samplers, the researchers find that organic farmers’ wristbands contain lower pesticide levels than other groups, offering insight into the benefits of organic and disproportionate risks to farmers using chemical-intensive methods. The results further reveal prevalent environmental pesticide mixtures, in addition to highlighting exposure to current-use pesticides (CUPs) and legacy (banned) pesticides that occurs through multiple exposure routes to workers, residents, and consumers.
Natural Grocers Exceeds $100K Goal in Organic Month Fundraiser Supporting Rodale Institute
Through proceeds from limited-edition reusable bag sales and customer donations, the campaign raised a total of $113,220, exceeding the retailer’s $100,000 goal.
Research Bill Would Support Organic Sector, Seen as Solution to Health and Environmental Crises
With escalating environmental, health, climate crises tied to petrochemical pesticides and fertilizers, Beyond Pesticides is calling the transition to organic land management a mandate, not a choice. Additionally, as a solution, organic agriculture has returned competitive yields with chemical-intensive farming and higher profitability. In this context, Beyond Pesticides and its network are supporting the Organic Science and Research Investment (OSRI) Act, S.1385 and H.R. 5703, to help grow the organic sector and are asking members of Congress to cosponsor the legislation. If passed, OSRI will make strategic investments into the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) organic agriculture research, assisting farmers to meet the growing demand for organic products and keep organic dollars circulating in rural and regional economies. The House and Senate bills include the same legislative language.
Is Organic Food Better for You?
Choosing organic food is a personal decision. The health benefits are modest and sometimes uncertain, but organic farming can support animal welfare, environmental protection and soil health.
If you can afford to buy some organic items, focus on the “Dirty Dozen” or your favourite fruit and veg. If not, wash your produce well and remember that eating a wide range of fresh food, organic or not, is what matters most for your health.
Natural Grocers Expands Private-Label Brand With Organic Tortillas, Crafted for Every Type of Craving
Natural Grocers® launches new Natural Grocers® Brand Organic Tortillas, crafted in New Mexico and available in soft taco, burrito, whole wheat, and yellow corn styles, all certified organic, non-GMO, kosher, and free of hydrogenated fats or chemical dough conditioners. Priced affordably, the four varieties complement the retailer’s growing private-label line of over 900 products and reflect Natural Grocers by Vitamin Cottage’s quality standards and community-focused principles.
