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Snack Sensibly with Organic Foods |
The New Year's resolution - it's as much a part of the holidays as shopping for gifts. And one of the most common is the resolve to eat better, especially after a season filled with treats.
Problem is, it's not a resolution most kids are willing to make. Luckily, children and the entire family can snack sensibly while choosing organic products.
The wide variety of organic foods available today meets all types of consumer tastes and needs, from fruits, vegetables, meat and dairy to peanut butter, and yes, even chocolate.
Organic foods have become so popular that consumers can find versions of many favorite snacks at mainstream grocery and natural food stores nationwide.
In fact, a recent survey for the Organic Trade Association found that the snack food category was the second - fastest-growing segment in 2003 (meat and poultry was first), with a 30 percent growth in sales over the previous year. And in a recent USA Today online survey, nearly 37 percent of those surveyed said they would purchase an organic version of their favorite snack if it provided nutritional benefits.
"Having convenient certified organic snack food options provides children and adults with foods that are grown without the use of toxic and persistent pesticides or genetically modified ingredients, and that don't contain artificial ingredients or hydrogenated fats," said Katherine DiMatteo, executive director of the Organic Trade Association.
Numerous medical studies have linked trans fatty acids from hydrogenated fats, often found in conventional snacks, to heart disease, cancer and diabetes.
By replacing at least one conventional item with its organic counterpart each week, consumers can feel better about what they're eating and feeding their children.
Besides, going organic doesn't mean losing the flavor. Juicy organic oranges and flavorful tomatoes, for example, make great snacks for kids.
Parents may have little control over what their kids eat - or don't eat - at school. But a lunch from home, snacks and dinnertime meals can be packed with power, using organic foods whenever possible.
To learn more about organic foods, visit www.ota.com. - NU |
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