Ask Sid: Is It Really Organic?

Q. How can I tell if “organic” foods are the real deal, and the sign hasn’t just been placed there by the grocer? These foods are usually more expensive.

A. The answer is on the food, either with stickers, labels or printed information on the package. Here’s what to look for:

• Organic fruits and vegetables should have a five-digit Price Look Up sticker beginning with 9, says Barbara Haumann of the Organic Trade Association. Conventionally grown produce, which typically is treated with chemicals and pesticides, has a four-digit sticker.

For example, an organically grown banana would have a 94011 sticker; its nonorganic counterpart would be 4011.

• Items that have been genetically modified will have five-digit stickers beginning with 8. They “pose a serious health risk,” according to the American Academy of Environmental Medicine.

• Bagged, boxed or container foods will note they are organic-certified and by whom, such as the Maryland Department of Agriculture or the California Certified Organic Farmers.

• Items with the U.S. Department of Agriculture Organic seal are 100 percent organically grown, or contain at least 95 percent organic ingredients by weight (excluding water and salt).

• Items claiming to be “Made With Organic Ingredients” must contain at least 70 percent organic ingredients and are not eligible for the USDA seal.

Sid Kirchheimer writes about consumer and health issues.