Healthy Food Sources
Nutritionists agree that eating organic, local, seasonal whole foods is the healthiest possible diet. However, since these ideal foods are not always available in our neighborhood grocery stores, it is worth the effort to locate other sources, including co-ops, local farmers’ markets, farm stands, and community supported agriculture (CSA) programs. CSA program members support a local farm by purchasing a share or subscription in return for a weekly box of freshly harvested vegetables and fruits, eggs, dairy or meat products. This can be a very economical method of sourcing quality food.
Produce certified organic by the USDA is grown without the use of synthetic pesticides and fertilizers, biosolids (PFAS and plastic-contaminated solid waste from sewage treatment), or genetically modified organisms (GMOs), and will not have been irradiated. Recent studies have found that many common genetically modified (GM) foods are contaminated with concerning levels of pesticide residues. This is not surprising, as GM crops are engineered to withstand multiple pesticide applications.
If a complete switch to organic foods is not possible, at the very least try to purchase the organic version of those fruits and vegetables that your child eats most often. When choosing conventionally grown fruits and vegetables, select those containing the lowest pesticide residues. A current list of these can be found at Helping2Heal.org, along with sample menus using healthy whole foods that are budget-friendly.
As a general rule for shopping in grocery stores, stick to the outside aisles, where whole, fresh foods are most often found.
Note: The US Department of Agriculture has rules for labeling genetically modified or GM foods, endorsing the term “bioengineered,” and disallowing language about genetically modified or gene-edited foods on packaging. Instead, they require QR (quick response) codes on labels, which can be read only by consumers who use a smart phone, or an 800 number to call for more information. Along with many other exceptions and exemptions, this disappointing labeling regulation will certainly cause consumer confusion when trying to avoid foods containing genetically modified ingredients.
Healthy Food Resources
The demand for better food sources is growing and if you look around a bit, you will probably be pleasantly surprised. Among your best choices are farmers’ markets and CSA programs. Localharvest.org has an extensive listing.
The Environmental Working Group publishes an excellent online guide to the most (and least) contaminated foods, which they classify as the "Dirty Dozen and the "Clean Fifteen."