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​It can be shocking to think that the food we see before us in grocery stores or markets has been altered in order to look that way. A number of produce that we see as fresh produce has actually been treated with various chemicals, coloring and other procedures in order to maintain its look and appeal. These treatments are detrimental to our health and can cause a variety of health issues including kidney failure, liver and stomach problems. 

One of the common procedures to ensure our fruits and vegetables look fresh and appetizing is to treat them with artificial coloring, which is known to have traces of lead and mercury. Watermelons are one of the better-known color-dyed fruits. Sellers have been found to inject dye into the watermelon to increase its bright red hue. Other vegetables that are often altered include pumpkin, okra and beans. 

​A method of increasing growth speeds is to use a chemical concoction that has oxytocin and inject it into the produce. In order to ripen produce in time for selling, farmers or individual sellers are known to use chemicals such as calcium carbide and copper sulphate. 

Watermelon also undergoes carbide treatment in order to speed up its growth and help it grow into a more appealing shape. 

Vegetables and fruits can be given a wax treatment in order to maintain their look and prolong life on the shelf. The majority of wax used on fruits and vegetables tend to come from petroleum, which has traces of wood rosins and solvent deposits. Aside from the wax, ethanol or ethyl alcohol can be added to improve texture.

​A different wax is used when it comes to organic fruits and vegetables. These waxes come from natural resources such as lac beetles, carnauba palm trees and beeswax. 

Apples, cucumbers, eggplant, bell peppers, oranges, potatoes, limes and lemons are the most popularly waxed fruits and vegetables. 

Other coatings that can be added to fruits and vegetables also serve the same purpose by improving shelf life by reducing the speed of aging. While the list of possible coatings is a very long one, the most commonly used materials are lipids, polysaccharides, resins and proteins.

Additional essences added to the mentioned materials include antioxidants, plasticizers, texturizers and antimicrobials. 

The best way to ensure that you aren’t consuming fruits and vegetables that have been treated this way is to find an organic food source. Or at least a local food source where you can communicate with the farmers and sellers and find out their methods. 

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Organically grown produce is beneficial to our bodies and the environment because it encourages the use of natural farming techniques, natural products and does not leave a negative effect on the environment.

​Aside from the farming itself, organically grown produce reflects on other areas such as protecting the environment, the welfare of animals, healthier options for us consumers as well as economical and sociological affects. 

When you choose to eat organically grown produce you are encouraging the continuation of farming techniques that are beneficial to nature. Farmers who grow produce organically keep the soil fertile and have been found to increase and maintain naturally occurring resources. 

The moderation of pesticides, fertilizers and other chemicals used has a better impact on our air and water. Instead of using chemicals, organic farmers are encouraged to recycle and use natural methods of fertilizing and keeping pests and diseases at bay. Chemicals can contaminate our air and water through wind and rain and are linked to a number of diseases.  

Organically grown produce helps converse nature by not having a negative impact of toxic traces and by encouraging a variety of crops to naturally occur.

​This stimulates a system of ecology that is both sustainable and comprehensive. A controlled amount of weeds and pest is seen as a good thing in organic farming because it is a sign of healthy crops and is in fact beneficial to the farm as a whole because it is nature’s way of complementing produce.

Unlike large-scale farming, farms that grow organic produce tend to mimic nature as much as possible by using methods that are similar to natural occurrence. 


Since farmers refrain from using chemicals, they tend to reuse and recycle organic compounds to use as compost or fertilizers. This is beneficial to the soil and is a wonderful way to reusing waste materials. 

Organic grown produce tends to come from local resources and cuts back on pollution caused by transportation. It also means we will most likely have fresher fruits and vegetables than a commercial source. 

Aside from purchasing organically grown produce, one can also implement these techniques and start a home garden. Even if you only have one or a few vegetables or fruits, this can help reduce waste in packaging, energy on transportation and cost as well. There are many do-it-yourself options that can teach you how to grow your own produce and enjoy sustainable living.

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Brief introduction to growing your own herbs at home

Herbs are amazing plants that can add a variety of unique flavors to dishes and be used as medicine as well. Herbs are nice to look at and have interesting colors and textures.

The fragrance of herbs also adds to a garden and home. Herbs are an interesting plant since their leaves, roots, stems, seeds and pods can be used to some extent. Herbs can easily be an addition to your home by using the tips below.

Herbs are fun to grow at home, adding some options for cooks and helping liven up the place by sitting on a windowsill. Fresh herbs are a must have for home cooks and can be incorporated into a variety of dishes.

​There are several methods to choose from when it comes to starting an indoor herb garden. 

A planter can be filled with potting soil, which is of higher quality than regular soil, and a selection of herb seeds. Place the planter on a windowsill or by a window that receives plenty of natural sunlight.

The most successful indoor herb gardens receive six hours of sunlight per day, with significant decreases of temperature during the afternoons. The leaves of the herbs will burn if there is too much heat or sun.

Sometimes the perfect conditions for growing herbs are more difficult to find. This is when a hydroponic kit is ideal. Hydroponics use water to nourish the plant and do not need any soil since it is provided with nourishment in liquid form. Lights are purchased and mimic plants optimal sunlight conditions.

​This method tends to be quicker and require less maintenance as well.

​Hydroponic herb kits can be a D.I.Y experiment but since this is a popular type of gardening in the home, many retailers of hydroponic equipment have related products. Regardless of the method you choose, herbs will grow optimally and offer the best flavor when they receive good water, light and the appropriate nourishment. 

The best way to start your herb garden is to select high quality seeds or healthy plants to begin with. Plants should be carefully inspected before taking them home. Don’t bring home plants that show any signs of insects or other problems. 

Plants require generous room space and recommendations are often found on seed packets and plant descriptions. Plant pots should be turned regularly to allow all sides to grow equally. 

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