Supermarket BUZZWORDS to watch

[StephN]

These tips are from the AARP magazine of Jan/Feb 2010. Can you tell I am a bit behind in my reading? But I learned something here, especially about the eggs. (Don't think I have ever seen an "organic fish" label.)

Don't Buy Every Buzzword! Phil says: Supermarkets and food manufacturers slap all kinds of words on their products to suggest they're better—and thereby justify a higher price. But sometimes those terms mean less than you would think. Here are some examples of buzzwords to avoid. Don't pay up for these marketing slogans—they're not worth the label they're printed on!

Synthetic-growth-hormone-free milk
Today most store brands are free of added hormones, and on average cost about half as much as organic brands.

Hormone-free eggs
The label may as well read "Hype"! The use of hormones in poultry has been banned since the 1960s. Also be cautious before paying more for eggs labeled free range. The outdoor area for these hens could be a concrete slab. For real assurance of a barnyard lifestyle, look for certified humane.
(I look for "Vegetarian fed.")

USDA-certified organic beef
Though high standards earn this beef a premium price, the term doesn't tell you whether the cattle were fed grain or grass. For better beef that's sometimes cheaper, look for grass-fed beef, which (whether certified organic or not) contains about half as much fat, twice as much omega-3 fatty acids, and a higher level of vitamin E.

Organic fish
This label has no fixed meaning, since the USDA has not declared a standard for organic seafood (though other nations have). If you see this, ask the vendor what it means. It may not be worth paying extra.