Organic – any product that was grown or created without the use of chemical pesticides, fertilizer, hormones, antibiotics, or artificially-derived chemical additives. Organic plant products do not allow for genetic engineering or the use of radiation. Organic wines do not have added sulfites, only naturally-occuring, trace amounts. (Wines from Europe are, by nature, organic). When the term “organic” is found on food products, at least 95% of the product uses organic ingredients. Read the rest of this entry »
Chamomile Flowers (Matricaria recutita)
A member of the daisy community used to treat dermatitis, minor skin irritations, and inhibits inflammation. In one study it was found that chamomile was 60% as active as a topical corticosteroid cream. Another study using patients with atopic dermatitis, it was found to be nearly as effective as hydrocortisone. German herbalist called it alles zutraut which means “capable of anything”.
Posted by Dr. Ali ABY Muhammed | Posted in Non-Organic Ingredients | Posted on 03-07-2010
What They Are, How They’re Used, and Why They Made the List
By: Karen Berner
The Department of Agriculture has proposed 38 ingredients that could be put in “USDA organic”-labeled foods even though they are not grown organically. Here is the list of ingredients, where they come from, what foods they can be found in, who petitioned for their inclusion on the list and why. For those ingredients that the Organic Consumers Association specifically is trying to have removed from the list, we have also included the group’s rationale. The Organic Trade Association supports the list in its entirety, and will make no comments about the validity of individual items on the list.
1. Celery Powder
Comes from: Celery that is blanched and the liquid is then concentrated, pasteurized, frozen, and dried with a vacuum dryer. Used in: Celery powder is deemed a natural source of nitrate for meat curing. It’s found in hot dogs, bacon, corned beef, pastrami, and salami. Petitioners: Florida Food Products, Inc. (Florida) and Jim Bacus Consulting (Florida). Reason for Petition: Celery powder could be supplied organically, but is not currently available because the organic sausage market isn’t large enough to inspire a farmer to produce the product.
