It says ‘natural’ so that should be good, right?

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You’re in the grocery store, you’re trying to decide between two food products -- one says all “natural” and the other says “organic.”  Which one should you go for and does it matter?

A friend asked me a similar question after purchasing a frozen food entrée labeled "natural."  Her concern was about the freshness of the product and the use of the word natural in terms of it being a healthy choice.

Well, the first question about the freshness is simple.  If the food in question is not expired, then yes, it is fresh.  Frozen foods, regardless of the type are frozen fresh; making frozen the optimal choice if you don’t have time to cook using fresh ingredients.  Frozen fruits and vegetables are fresher than canned ones because they are frozen immediately after being picked.

As far as it being healthy because it’s labeled “natural,” well that’s a different story.  "Natural" is not a term that is defined and or regulated by the Food and Drug Administration or the United States Department of Agriculture.

The FDA regulates meat and poultry products.  The USDA oversees food safety in addition to educating Americans on nutritional guidelines.

“Natural” has no significant meaning in terms of what is in a particular food.  You should not use "natural" to determine if a product is healthy.  Generally, natural is intended for products that do not have additives. But to be sure, read the label.

What if the package says “organic?”  That means it’s regulated by the USDA although, it remains undefined by the FDA.

The USDA has created guidelines for farms that produce organic food.   Organic food should be produced without antibiotics, hormones, pesticides, irradiation or bioengineering.

As for nutrition and "organic" labeled foods.  Well, that is still being debated ("The Organic Debate: Healthier or not?" , "Is Organic Produce Healthier than Conventional?" and from the Mayo Clinic, "Are organic foods safer or more nutritious?").

The North Carolina Cooperative Extension at North Carolina State University thoroughly defines  what an "organic" label means.

One of the most important things for you to remember is “organic” and “natural” are not interchangeable because “natural” is not regulated.

Also visit the National Sustainable Agriculture Information Service's website.  It’s a great first step for educating yourself on organic foods and farming as defined by the USDA. 

Finally, if you’re still feeling confused about what choices to make, check out Fitness Magazine’s 2010 Healthy Food Awards. The foods are broken down by categories and aren’t necessarily labeled “natural” or “organic”  but are considered the healthiest in the grocery store.

I am a certified Crossfit Kettlebell instructor, triathlete and former trained dancer. I am not a nutritionist or a doctor. Information I share is based on my own research and experience. Before beginning a diet or fitness routine you should consult your physician or a health professional. For question and comments about this blog, contact me at akiia.james@abc11mail.com.