These days companies are jumping on the “Organic”, “Natural”. “Healthy” bandwagon. Of course, it’s good business, whether the claims are truthful or not! So now as you walk through the aisles of your local market, you’re sure to see these words highlighted on packages from cereals to desserts.
The first clue that they’re misrepresenting comes from the wording on the package. If it screams in large print “made WITH” instead of “made OF“… watch out! That means that although there’s a bit of good stuff in it (like whole grains) most of the other ingredients are sugar, refined grains, preservatives, additives, chemicals, artificial colors and flavors, and worst of all, GMOs (genetically modified organisms!)
Ouch!
It’s a shame that companies are using words to rope you in when actually their products are inferior, and often detrimental to your health. My rule of thumb is that if it contains ingredients that you don’t easily recognize, pass them by and look for another product. Thankfully there are still some great companies out there, like Arrowhead Mills, Shiloh Farms and Bob’s Organic.
Don’t let this new information scare you off. I want to assure you that knowing about how much “bad” stuff is out there won’t make shopping a yucky experience. Just the opposite! Becoming more knowledgeable and avoiding pitfalls, makes shopping an adventure… like a Treasure Hunt.
Just watch… No sooner do you say “no” to the unhealthy stuff, all sorts of wonderful, delicious, healthy choices will show up! That’s what happened to me, and it feels great! I welcome you to a world of new choices that add to your health, your vitality, your beauty… and, of course, your sexuality.
Here’s to healthy, happy eating!
Starting to watch labels more and becoming better educated to the “junk” in our “healthy” food! You’ve just made that chore a little easier with two new words to find when shopping! Thanks, Hattie!
Thank you, Hattie. I had no idea. From now on, I’ll be reading those labels carefully, looking for made “with” vs. made “of”.
Thanks for “getting it!” Kay. At first, it might feel discouraging and even make you question what the FDA is doing to protect the consumer… us! Well, that makes sense. When I learned that USDA Organic meant that 95% of the product had to be organic, I was incensed. That 5% can contain some pretty awful stuff, and who’s checking? BUT I made the decision to overlook certain things and put my energy behind finding companies with integrity, avoiding the others, and not even bothering to be bothered by them. It makes me less sour, and also makes shopping fun, as there are many discoveries to be made when we stop buying what we’re used to buying.
Like Spicy? Try Kimchee! Wanna interesting sandwich swrap? Try double sheets of Nori! YUM!