Grainwashing: Organic Vs Natural Cereal

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Food For Thought

Sunday, December 11, 2011

by Janelle Sorensen, Chief Communications Officer, Healthy Child Healthy World

Like many other consumers, I used to think that if I shopped at the local co-op or in the natural section of the grocery store, I couldn’t go wrong. I could relinquish my fears of GMOs and pesticides and breeze through my grocery shopping without an eco-care in the world.

Not so true.

Now, I know that just because a product has pictures of baby animals or leaves, or is sitting on the shelf next to an organic product, or says “natural,” it does not mean it’s healthier or more eco-friendly than other conventional options.

According to the latest report from the Cornucopia Institute.

There are no restrictions for foods labeled “natural” (very basic standards exist only for meat products). The term often constitutes nothing more than meaningless marketing hype promoted by corporate interests seeking to cash in on the consumer desire for food produced in a genuinely sustainable manner.

Unlike the organic label, no government agency, certification group or other independent entity fully defines the term “natural” on processed food packages or ensures that the claim has merit.

This report explores the vast differences between organic cereal and granola products and so-called natural products, which contain ingredients grown on conventional farms where the use of toxic pesticides and genetically engineered organisms is widespread.

Our analysis reveals that “natural” products—using conventional ingredients—often are priced higher than equivalent organic products. This suggests that some companies are taking advantage of consumer confusion.

To find brands that are committed to sustainable agriculture, avoiding genetically engineered ingredients and supporting organic farmers, use the Cereal Scorecard.

Here’s a quick video summary of their findings:

Does your family eat cereal? What kind? Any other easy breakfast ideas?

Learn more:

Visit Eat Healthy to find recipes that are fast, frugal, fun, and eco-friendly!
Is Organic Milk A Hoax?
What Does “Organic” Really Mean?

Photo courtesy musicfanatic29 / CC BY 2.0

Posted by Christa on 12/17/2011 at 10:12 PM

Did anyone mention the price tag quickly shown in the beginning of the video? In what year could you get a box of cereal for 2.99?

Posted by Gail Keller on 12/17/2011 at 02:58 PM

We have purchased cereals that are non-organic and organic. Another criteria is for cereals to be less than 5g sugar and there are not extensive options for kids. I am disturbed to know Kashi is owned by Kellogg and should have done my homework on that one. We do purchase Cascadian Farms. We will be sharing this link with our readers.

Posted by sharon on 12/12/2011 at 06:37 PM

Thank you this will help me and all who I can share it with.

Posted by crunchymommy on 12/12/2011 at 08:20 AM

This is why I read labels.

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