Natural vs. Organic

Hi everyone! My name is Jen Brown and I am a new member of the Protect Our Breasts team this year. I cannot even believe all of the knowledge that I have been flooded with over these past few months. I constantly find myself explaining to my friends and even strangers about the pesticides in the foods we eat and the chemicals in our make-up that contribute to breast cancer. It is hard not to share these messages everyday once you become aware. After attending the Natural Products Expo in Baltimore a few weeks ago, I stumbled upon an interesting series of questions and concerns about the difference between natural and organic. What does being “natural” even mean?

Since most of the companies and people at Expo were extremely health conscious and there to market their natural or organic product, I made the assumption that being natural meant that it was safe. I was wrong. Products labeled “natural” are not regulated, whereas organic products are the most heavily regulated under the National Organic Program. Any plant, mineral, or animal product can be considered “natural” as long as nothing artificial or synthetic (including all color additives regardless of source) has been included in, or has been added to, a food. “Organic”, on the other hand, refers to, and is regulated by, how an ingredient was grown, without synthetic pesticides, fertilizers, hormones, or GMOs. It is also not processed with irradiation or additives.

Natural foods are sometimes assumed to be a healthier option. This is great, but what about all of the toxic pesticides and hormone-disrupting chemicals linked to breast cancer that could possibly be found in these foods or drinks and should not be anywhere near our bodies? The safest way to Protect Our Breasts is to choose USDA NOP organic certified products. Don’t be confused by the labeling!