Every time you shop your local grocery store, you have numerous products to choose from. In the dairy section alone, there are dozens of products — milk, cheese, sour cream, yogurt, cottage cheese — most locally made here in Michigan. So when something has an organic label, what does that mean? Is organic healthier for your family?
The basics: what does organic mean?
If produce, meat or dairy products are labeled “organic,” it means:
- It was produced according to specific standards “for planting, growing, raising and handling,” according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA).
- It was produced without using GMOs — or genetically modified organisms.
- Organic meat and dairy products are produced from animals “raised in living conditions that accommodated their natural behaviors.”
What is organic dairy?
Organic dairy is created by following specific farming practices:
- Milk and other dairy foods that are labeled organic must come from a certified organic cow, according to the USDA.
- Organic dairy cows are not given growth hormones or antibiotics.
- They eat 100% organic food.
Does organic milk contain different nutrients?
When you compare organic and conventional milk, you’ll notice more similarities than differences.
- All types of milk contain essential nutrients like calcium and vitamin D.
- Every type of milk is a good source of protein.
- Regardless of how it is produced, milk is not considered a major source of omega-3 fatty acids, according to experts at Undeniably Dairy.
Are organic foods more expensive?
We’re all watching our family food budget, so how do prices stack up? We compared prices at Meijer:
- A pound of organic baby cut carrots is $1.69. The same amount of conventionally grown baby carrots is $1.35.
- A dozen extra-large organic eggs is $5.39. The conventional XL eggs are $4.19. (Both are labeled “cage free.”)
- A half-gallon of organic whole milk is $4.49. Conventional whole milk is $1.89 for a half gallon.
Are organic foods more nutritious?
Choosing organic foods for your family is largely a matter of personal preference. Here’s what a 2024 study from the National Library of Medicine shares about the nutritional value:
- Some organic foods contain higher levels of iron, magnesium and vitamin C, but “it can’t be concluded that the organic diet provides any related health benefits.”
- Experts say that including plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains and dairy foods — organic or not — is a nutritious choice.
- “Eating a balanced diet with a variety of foods to get essential nutrients is important to maintain healthy gut and immune function and optimize overall wellness,” according to United Dairy Industry of Michigan.
Content sponsored by United Dairy Industry of Michigan / Milk Means More. Find more articles like this at Metro Parent’s How to Get Kids to Eat Healthy.
