Reading Your Produce Labels

I have touched on shopping on a small budget and organic vs. non-organic; but, there is something that is very important before piling your carts full on non-organic, clean 15 products.  (see previous post for more information)  GMOs...dun, dun,dunnnnn....Genetically Modified Organisms.  It is no secret that pesticides are harmful, or that we can not genetically modify something without modifying it's consistency.  GMO's have been linked to some of the leading diseases in our country, effecting millions!!!  80% of our supermarket store shelves are made of Genetically Modified Organisms.  That only leaves us with 20% to shop from!!! I think that this is where the "Just By Organic" becomes an easy go to for individuals.  There is a lot less stress of wondering about the makeup of your food, and it's time saving for many of us, but not necessarily economical.  So how do I know what to buy?  What brands are not genetically modified?  How can I tell if my produce is?  How do I find enough time or knowledge to shop smart?

Well that's what this blog post is for.  Making it easy on consumers with as little effort as possible while still selecting the best items at the lowest cost for our families and ourselves.  The website True Food Network is an excellent source for information and a one stop shop to get you most of the tools you need to successfully complete your grocery shopping list with the most nutrients possible for you and your loved ones.  So if you have a smart phone, I completely recommend getting it out right now and downloading their free app to your phone...search True Food Network, click on install, and tahdah!!!!

Right at your finger tips you have one of the most excellent sources of information!!!  It comes complete with tips to grocery shop, what to buy and what not to...what brands use GMO's and who doesn't.  Guess what, it's not all organic!!!  ***Please note, there is nothing wrong with buying all organic if you can, but for those of us that aren't able too...this is for you!!!  So for those of you who don't have a smart phone, don't worry...it's not nearly as convenient, but...I posted a printable version for your review, The Shoppers Guide to GMOs!!!

Okay, so now you have all of that information, but what about those little stickers on produce...do they tell you anything?  Oh yes they do, they are called a PLU number!!!! It's not just an inspection sticker like you find on products identifying the individual who inspected it, it is a formula for the educated shoppers like you and I...and here is how it works, it's as easy as 4, 8, 9:

PLU Numbers on Produce Stickers:

• Organic produce has a 5 digit PLU number that begins with the number 9.
• Conventional produce has a 4 digit PLU number that begins with the number 4.
• Genetically modified (GMO) produce has a 5 digit PLU number that begins with the number 8.

The information posted below is a little cheat sheet full of fun facts if you're interested, it's bright, colorful, and full of useful information regarding GMOs:

**The purpose of this blog is to help individuals looking to gain a healthy lifestyle by eating nutritional food items to be able to do so by using this as a guide.  It is intended to lay the foundation of meal planning, understanding how to grocery shop and collecting nutritional information for your review.  I'm not an advocate for anything other than a healthy lifestyle with healthy food choices.

I appreciate all those who read my posts and am welcome to questions, comments, etc.

Best of luck in the grocery isles by hopefully using this information!!!  Until next time, as I explore "7 Days to Successful Meal Planning!!!