5 key things to keep in mind while buying organic fruits and vegetables

In recent years, there has been a significant shift in how we buy our fruits and vegetables. With the growing awareness about health and wellness, more and more people are opting for organic produce. And why shouldn’t they? Organic produce is free of harmful substances, supports sustainable farming practices, and according to many, it just tastes better. But since there are so many options in the market, how do you make sure you’re buying the real thing? If you’re someone who wants to buy organic fruits and vegetables but don’t know how, don’t worry! We’ve compiled a list of 5 easy ways you can find out if your produce is organic or not!

Also read: Should you eat fruit before or after meals?

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Here are 5 ways you can know if your fruits and vegetables are organic:

1. Check the organic authority

When shopping for your fruits and vegetables, look for the labels on them. Look for certification labels issued by NPOP (National Programme for Organic Production) or APEDA (Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority). These certifications are provided after thorough checking by authorized bodies. If you see these labels on your fruits and vegetables, you can be assured that your produce has been grown without synthetic pesticides and fertilizers. So, make it a habit to always look for these labels on your produce.

2. Appearance

Don’t be discouraged by their imperfect appearance! Organic fruits and vegetables have a unique and natural look. Unlike commonly grown produce, organic fruits and vegetables may not be perfectly shaped or colored. In fact, you may notice some blemishes or spots on their skin, which are actually signs of their organic nature. These factors indicate that your produce is organically grown. Even the texture of these organic fruits and vegetables will be different. Since they are not coated with artificial waxes and preservatives, organic fruits and vegetables may feel a little rougher than their non-organic counterparts.

3. Presence of insects

If you cut open a fruit and see a worm falling out of it, don’t panic. Organic produce is not treated with pesticides, so it is common to find worms in it. The most basic difference between organic and non-organic produce is that the latter is treated with chemicals to kill any pests that may grow in it. So, if you see worms or insects in your produce, it is a sign that it is organic.

Photo credit: iStock

4. Smell the produce

The best thing about buying organic produce is its rich, natural aroma. Organic fruits and vegetables have an earthy smell and a stronger fragrance than non-organic produce. This is because organic fruits and vegetables are harvested and delivered quickly and fresh without the use of any chemicals that can reduce their natural fragrance. So, the next time you visit the market, take some time to smell the produce. For example, an organic tomato has a sweet and aromatic smell, while a bunch of coriander leaves has a strong aroma.

5. Taste

The ultimate test of organic produce is its taste. Many people find that organic fruits and vegetables taste much richer and vibrant. Since it contains more nutrients, the produce tastes more delicious. Also, lesser quantities are needed when cooking compared to the non-organic variety. Moreover? Organic food can also make you feel full faster because it contains more nutrients and satisfies your hunger faster!

Also read: Vegetables or vegetable juice: which is healthier?