Organic Spices

**When buying spices, choose organic ones**

Did you know that conventional spices contain harmful ingredients?  When you buy conventional spices, they often contain artificial colors, preservatives, and GMOs, and are sterilized using toxic chemicals such as ethylene oxide (linked to genetic mutations and chromosomal damage that can lead to cancer, according to the EPA). Apparently, virtually all conventional spices sold in the United States are fumigated (sterilized) with hazardous chemicals that are banned in Europe.

Did you know that when spices are irradiated, the finished product has decreased levels of vitamins and natural enzymes. Irradiation changes the chemical composition of a spice, potentially creating toxic, carcinogenic by-products in the food and increasing our exposure to free radicals (free radicals cause aging and disease).

Did you know that a large number of spices on the market today contain monosodium glutamate (MSG), a known carcinogen, endocrine disrupter and killer of brain cells, which may also be linked to the development of cardiac problems, kidney problems, neurological disorders, Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s and Lou Gehrig’s disease. It can also lead to inflammation, migraines, obesity and/or cell damage, to name only a few potential effects.

Buy Organic Spices

 Organic spices don’t contain any fillers, synthetic anti-caking agents, artificial colors, flavors or preservatives that may be found in conventional spices. They’re also not irradiated and are free of genetically modified ingredients.

When buying organic spices, save money and waste less, by buying whole spices when possible. To keep spices fresh longer, freeze them, as they do have an expiration date. Whole spices generally stay fresh for four years while ground spices can become less potent within a year or two after purchase. Leafy herbs, like bay leaves, last only about a year before their flavor is compromised. By freezing, you’re locking in the fresh flavor and prolonging their use.

 My 2 favorite places to order organic herbs from are:

https://www.mountainroseherbs.com/catalog/herbs/bulk

https://www.frontiercoop.com/bulk-products/seasonings/

References:

https://www.organicconsumers.org/old_articles/Organic/spicesgood.php

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3730882/

Source: Livingtraditionally

Source: atasteofhome.com

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