A new law requiring country of origin labeling to appear on food is expected to take effect today. The new regulations means most food retailers will have to disclose the country of origin for many types of meat, produce, and other food products. However, I foresee a few problems with the new regulation that MSNBC senior writer, Allison Linn noted:

But while the regulations will provide customers with more information about where their food comes from, there also is likely to be some confusion, as consumers — and experts — work to understand exactly what is covered under the regulations, and what isn’t. That’s because the regulations exclude a variety of foods that fall under the labeling requirement but are considered to be processed, including roasted peanuts, breaded chicken and bacon. The exemption for processed food also means that certain foods that are mixed together don’t have to be labeled, such as a bag of lettuce that includes both Romaine and iceberg, or a package of frozen peas and carrots. [emphasis added]

This won’t help us with tainted chocolate made from melamine spiked milk from China, and it won’t help us with mixed or processed foods but it’s a start. The exclusions for processed foods are too broad and leave room for unethical behavior (let’s spike this frozen dinner with melamine to boost the protein content.) I recommend reading Allison’s entire article for more details on the new food labeling law, retailer costs, and deadlines. Food Democracy also has a reaction to the new law.

We can only hope that more will be done to address the labeling exclusions because many families rely on mixed and processed foods. As for me and my family, we are making the switch to natural and organic foods. Cost is a challenge but enhanced food quality, supporting sustainable, environmentally friendly agriculture, and piece of mind are worth it. Unfortunately, many American’s grocery budgets cannot accomodate organic foods. Making the switch slowly helped our budget. We started with organic, hormone-free milk and eggs, then incorporated natural, free range, hormone-free meats, then organic produce and fruit juices. During the process we also added in organic sugar, flour, cereal and other necessities as we needed them. We are almost 100% organic now; it took us about a year to get there.

Shop around and look for the best bargins and best produce. Most large supermarkets have a natural/organic section and carry some organic produce. Try to get local, organic produce when it’s available. Look for your local farmer’s market or try a CSA. Be creative, cook more, and go out to eat to less. You’ll save money and the food you make will be healthier than the rich, greasy, low quality food you get when you eat out. Start slow and work in products when you can and when your budget allows. You’ll see over time how your budget can accommodate the switch to organic that will benefit your family’s health, while not pinching your pocketbook.

Crossposted at Alegre’s Corner