Checking whether food is organic can be hard in New Zealand, especially if you don’t have access to the specific information or labels that are generally legally protected regarding the information they have on them.
However, here are some tips to help you find out if food is actually organic or not:
- Look for Organic Certifications: Organic food producers often obtain certifications from reputable organizations that verify their compliance with organic standards. In the United States, for example, the USDA (United States Department of Agriculture) provides the “USDA Organic” certification. Check for such certifications on the product packaging or labels. In NZ, the Ministry for Primary Industries has this resource: https://www.mpi.govt.nz/agriculture/organic-product-requirements-in-nz/
- Read Product Labels: Check the product labels for any claims related to organic production. Phrases such as “100% organic,” “certified organic,” or “made with organic ingredients” indicate that the product contains organic ingredients or was produced following organic practices. Be aware that the specific organic content may vary based on the labeling claims.
- Check PLU Codes: If you’re purchasing fresh produce, you can check the Price Look-Up (PLU) codes. PLU codes are typically found on stickers attached to fruits and vegetables. Look for a five-digit code starting with the number 9. For example, an organic apple might have the PLU code 94011, where “9” signifies organic produce.
- Verify with the Seller: If you have any doubts about the organic status of a product, you can directly ask the seller or the retailer. They may provide information on the source, certification, or production methods to help you make an informed decision. At most food stores, for example Simply Organic in Tauranga, the staff will be able to help you as they generally have extra knowledge about the origin of the food.
- Research the Brand or Producer: Conduct some research on the brand or producer of the food item. Check their website, social media accounts, or any available information to understand their commitment to organic practices and their transparency in the production process.
While these tips can help you make an informed choice, it’s important to note that they might not be foolproof. The most reliable way to ensure organic authenticity is to purchase from trusted sources, such as certified organic farms, reputable organic food brands, or local farmers’ markets that emphasize organic practices.
– Article written by Corey Hinde.
