Because of the growing numbers of independent organizations and researchers, many people are aware that non-organic foods are treated with pesticides and herbicides, contaminated sewage sludge, hormones and antibiotics and radiation. Of course, not all non-organic food is contaminated with
Because of the growing numbers of independent organizations and researchers, many people are aware that non-organic foods are treated with pesticides and herbicides, contaminated sewage sludge, hormones and antibiotics and radiation. Of course, not all non-organic food is contaminated with high levels of toxins, but there is no way to tell, so is it best to seek out organic food as much as possible. As the popularity and availability of these healthier food choices increases, it will become easier to access.
The pesticides and herbicides currently used on many non-organic crops are exceptionally toxic to humans and can build up in human tissue. This is particularity dangerous for children. Many pesticides that are banned in the U.S. are not banned in other countries, and foods are imported into the U.S. with pesticide residues on and in them.
Non-organic meat, eggs and dairy means the animals have been given antibiotics, hormones and many times ground up remains of other animals. Not only is the health of the animal compromised, but human health is also affected by these practices. One of the biggest reasons we have challenges with “super bugs” is that we have created resistant strains by constantly ingesting antibiotics in our food. We eat antibiotics in these foods and bacteria in our bodies are challenged by the exposure to antibiotics. The stronger ones survive and their offspring become increasingly resistant.
You are likely aware of Kaua‘i’s interest in becoming self sufficient and growing as much as we can here. I’ve written about supporting the local farmer’s markets and buying fresh, local and organic in the past. When it comes to organic meat and animal products, the farmer’s markets do not have the bounty that they do in veggies and fruit, but a wonderful little store — Living Foods Market in Po‘ipu — has answered the need by offering only free-range chickens, turkeys and ducks, as well as local fish such as mahi mahi, ono, opah, ahi and shrimp and Kauaian ground beef.
The poultry is completely free of preservatives, flavors, enhancers, starches, spices or any artificial ingredients, as well as being certified free of antibiotics or growth hormone. They also got to live outside as a real bird should. When they are slaughtered, they are not mechanically eviscerated, but the job is done by hand so there is no contamination of the meat.
I asked Chef Michael Simpson why he is so committed to natural foods in the store and at the food counter. He responded that he is focused on reducing the carbon footprint of the island, having the money stay here with local producers and serving only the freshest, most wholesome food available.
He showed me around the store pointing out the local fresh strawberries, bananas, local non-GMO papayas, zucchini and Kaua‘i coffee. He’s proud of bringing in local organic goat cheeses and baking a huge selection of organic artisan breads, as well as his selection of all house-made sausages.
The restaurant at Living Foods Market in Po‘ipu features fresh soups, fresh fruit smoothies, a revolving menu and, of course, fresh Kaua‘i coffee. Not everything in the store is local (wouldn’t that be nice?) but it is a step in that direction. With more and more people buying local and buying organic, we will be able to change the way we feed ourselves, increasing the health benefits to ourselves and our children. Kaua‘i is a fertile, year-round growing season paradise and we can do our part to support local farmers and producers.
• Jane Riley, B.A., C.P.T, C.N.A., can be reached at 212-1451 or www.janerileyfitness.com.
