With increasing frequency, people are taking time to examine the food that they eat. A short time ago, few people knew the descriptions free range, organic, hormone free or natural. They just did not worry about these items. Now, however, people are taking these descriptions to the store and returning home with different selections. Likewise, people now want to find these same descriptions when they go to a restaurant. For reasons of both expense and available stock, it is advantageous for the consumer to note that all organic goods are not equal in the benefits they provide.

The U.S.D.A. designates that foods must meet minimum requirements before being labeled with the “USDA Organic” seal. The rating system is heavily based on manufacturing and production. The organic designation requires that foods must have no trace of synthetic materials, including pesticides and fertilizer residues. At least 95% of the ingredients must have organic origins or come from animals who have never been provided with hormones or antibiotics. For foods that do not make the 95% mark, the label “Made with Organic Ingredients” is allowed down to a level of 70% organic ingredients.

The ideal choice for organic foods is to buy locally grown products that are handled less during the trip from field to table. Organic foods that travel long distances before you buy them can lose some of their organic benefits. Scientists recommend buying organic when purchasing foods generally found to contain higher levels of pesticides when commercially produced.

The following fruits have been identified as containing the highest level of pesticides: Apples, strawberries, pears, cherries, raspberries, imported grapes, nectarines and peaches. The top offenders among vegetables are as follows: Hot peppers, bell peppers, potatoes, celery and spinach. When shopping for these items, it makes particular sense to find the organic equivalent of the product, even if the price is higher.

The fruits identified as containing the lowest amounts of pesticide include kiwis, plums, watermelon, bananas, mangoes, plantains and pineapples. The safest vegetables with regard to pesticides include broccoli, radishes, asparagus, Brussels sprouts, cauliflower and onions. When the grocery budget is limited, these fruits and vegetables are the safest bet among non-organic products. Shoppers should not assume that these products are always safe, but there is less risk of contamination versus products that consistently test with higher levels of pesticides.

As with any dietary choice, choosing organic comes down to personal needs and tastes. Many consumers are not aware that some foods carry a much higher organic benefit than others, and that even factors such as shipping distance affect the value of organic products. Whether or not you choose to eat organic food is up to you, but knowing the facts always makes the decision easier.

Stan Dyer is a seasoned writer centering on topics related to healthy products and healthy living. For more helpful consumer information, follow these links for updated news on best products and printable coupons.