Did you know that eating conventional produce increases your risk of pesticide contamination by 30 percent? And chowing down on non-organic chicken and pork increases your risk of exposure to antibiotic-resistant bacteria by 33 percent? This is all according to a 2012 Annals of Internal Medicine report.
If you're not already sold on the benefits of eating organic, consider this: organic foods may have more nutrients than their conventionally-produced counterparts. Organic broccoli, for example, has higher levels of antioxidants and vitamin C than the traditionally produced variety, found a 2012 Journal of the Science of Food and Agriculture study. There’s also evidence of more heart-healthy omega-3s in organic poultry and dairy.
So eating organic is good for you and your family, but here's more: organic grub is good for Mother Earth. Foods advertised as organic must be grown by farmers who aim to use renewable resources, and conserve the soil and water. These practices preserve the environment and help prevent the extinction of numerous animal species.
So, here are some of our favorite local organic hot spots. Plus, check out these great markets featuring eco-friendly fare:
Grocery Stores
The three big-chain grocery stores in Cartersville each sell various organic foods, including national brands and USDA-certified organic products: Ingles, Kroger and Publix.
The farmers market in downtown Cartersville, which specializes in fresh, Bartow County-grown produce, happens each week from June through September. During those months, it's held each Wednesday and Saturday from 7 a.m. to noon at Founders Oak Park between the fountains and City Hall on Public Square.
Swheat Market
This locally-owned restaurant in downtown Cartersville offers dishes made from fresh, locally-grown ingredients with an emphasis on variety, including vegetarian choices. Open for lunch and dinner, it's specialties include seafood, burgers, sandwiches and soups.
Vitamins Plus
In addition to nutrional and sports supplements, Cartersville's Vitamins Plus on North Tennessee Street sells fresh, natural, organic and whole foods.
GNC
Cartersville's GNC at Cherokee Place offers organic foods and drinks, including products to help either lose or gain weight, build muscle and improve health.
The Herb Shoppe
The Herb Shoppe in downtown Cartersville sells local honey.
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