Variety is the spice of life, and spices are the life of food. They define each dish, adding flavor, texture, color, and aroma, and, without them, eating would be bland and joyless.

Yet, in the organic conversation, they are often an afterthought. Sprinkling, rubbing, and marinating your wholesome, organic meat and produce with pesticide and chemical-tainted spices and herbs don’t make much sense and can potentially do more harm than good. 

So, before you add another pinch of oregano or pull out your jar of conventional garlic powder, brush up on why organic spices and herbs are worth the consideration. Quick Answers to important questions. 

#1: No Pesticides

 At the most basic level, spices and herbs come from plants. Spices, which are dried plant parts (bark, roots, fruits, etc.), and herbs, fresh or dried plant leaves, are highly concentrated and super-rich sources of healthy plant compounds. However, when potent toxic pesticides enter the mix, it becomes questionable as to whether your spices are more healthful or harmful.

#2: No Irradiation or Harmful Chemicals

All foodstuffs must undergo sanitation steps that eliminate deadly pathogens. Many conventional herbs and spices often undergo sterilization via irradiation, which preserves the food, but also creates carcinogenic by-products. An alternative technique commonly used requires the use of ethylene oxide, a toxic chemical that has been associated with central nervous system effects and cancer. Both processes are banned in several other countries.

Unlike the aforementioned methods, the third way to clean spices, via steam sterilization, is compliant with organic standards. Saturated steam, under high pressure, kills microorganisms without damaging the vital properties of the plant, like enzymes, polyphenols, and antioxidants - and without the use of any harmful chemicals.

#3: No Fillers, GMOs or Chemical Additives

 Finally, conventional spices often contain fillers, preservatives, and artificial flavors to enhance flavor that may have been lost in the manufacturing process. You won’t have to worry about these questionable additives, nor genetic modification, with organic products.

Overall, I encourage you to understand as much about all of your food as possible, and, yes, that includes your turmeric and tarragon. Fill your cabinets with spices that promote health, rather than detract from it, and feel confident in everything you put in your body.

Spicely Organics spices, herbs, and seasoning blends and extracts are all 100% certified organic and undergo a lengthy QA process to ensure product safety. We promise a wide variety of fresh, quality products that empower you and make you feel good about your food choices.