Unprecedented levels of obesity are making Americans more conscientious about what goes on their plates, with many turning to organic foods. At a conference in Chicago last week, food industry insiders discussed the merits of growing organic.
Lynn Clarkson, a certified organic processor, estimates that by 2010, 5 percent of food grown in America will be organic. A microbiologist and an organic certification consultant joined Clarkson on a panel Feb. 12 at the Illinois Institute of Art. The Chicago Nutrition Association organized “Organic Products … From Farm to Fork” to update nutritionists, caterers and chefs.
“We’re trying to stay with the trends,” said Holy Parkes of Little Lady Foods.
They discussed myths and controversies about organic foods and the environmental benefits of growing organically. About 25 chefs prepared organic foods behind glass panes stretching nearly floor to ceiling.
The panelists also explained USDA guidelines for certified organic products. Products labeled “100% Organic” must contain entirely organic ingredients. If a food contains 95 percent organic product, it can still display an organic seal. Products labeled “Made With Organic Ingredients” contain 70 to 95 percent organic ingredients, but can’t bear the seal. Below these levels, companies can only claim organic ingredients in the ingredients list.
The panelists dispelled the myth that organically grown food is more nutritious than foods grown with pesticides. “There is no data [showing] that the level of pesticide is causing a human health concern,” Johnson said.
Clarkson said organically grown produce is more ethically valuable because it can be traced back to growers.
Steve Moss, an organic certification consultant, said markets keep records of where organic products are grown. “You put some pride into a system that’s lacked pride for a long time,” Clarkson said.
Moss said the cost and availability of organic products prevents college students from purchasing them. “Organic has always had a groundswell among college students,” Moss said. “They drive a significant amount of the business.”
