That's Fit

Green has become a brand. Let's face it. While it is based on intelligent and environmentally friendly principles, the one unfortunate downside is that everyone from Fortune 500 companies to small, independently owned stores and service providers are trying to cash in on the Green brand. Is this a bad thing? I guess not, considering that it does help raise awareness and provide people with the option of living a healthier lifestyle. The only question is, At what cost?

Shape magazine ran an interesting piece in their most recent issue, taking a look at how to shop for organic foods without breaking the bank. Buying green without spending too much of it, I suppose you could say. The article itself was based on the new book The Organic Food Shopper's Guide, written by Jeff Cox. Here is one of the tips mentioned in both the book and the article. It is certainly worth considering the next time you're in the grocery store and want to go Green.

Search for the Seal. The USDA created a label in 2002 to help shoppers determine which grocery items were organic. This seal (which must say USDA Organic) ensures that the product is comprised of ingredients that are at least 95 percent organic. With specific regard to produce, the seal also ensures that the fruit or vegetable has been grown without the use of pesticides, or been genetically altered or treated with radiation to prevent spoiling. But Beware: the USDA permits companies to place the word "Organic" on their products if only 70 percent of ingredients are organically grown or processed. That's why seeking out the "USDA Organic" label is the healthier way to go.