To be certified as organic, products must be inspected and certified by a state or private agency. A new study conducted by researchers at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill finds strong new evidence that a balanced diet helps fight the flu . UNC scientists found a lack of selenium leaves a body more vulnerable to damage from influenza viruses. Good sources of selenium include grains, such as rice and wheat. Chicken, tuna and oysters are also high in the trace mineral.
Selenium also helps protect the eyes from cataracts and the heart from muscle damage.
Hot weather often inspires us to eat more fruits and vegetables in salads and desserts. This is the first year a new set of national standards for organic foods is taking effect. The USDA established new organic labeling criteria and farming practices which prohibit the use of genetic engineering methods, ionizing radiation, and sewage sludge for fertilization. To make up for the loss of pesticides and synthetic fertilizers, farmers use new and old technology to grow crops. They may rotate crops between fields to improve soil fertility and plant certain bushes and flowers that attract desirable insects to protect crops from pests.