Newbie from Central New Jersey with questions

[picturesleuth]

Hi everyone!

I am excited to join this community. I live in rural Hunterdon County and am trying to become as Eco-Conscious as possible. I already have a couple of questions.... A&P which is our closest big market.... is beginning to discontinue the organic brands I used to buy and replace with their Green Way label.... Can I trust this as being truly organic? Specifically.... they have gotten rid of Bell and Evans chicken and have their brand as the only "organic" option... Also instant oatmeal.... I used to buy McCanns and now they have only have their boxes as the organic option.... It looks like they may be phasing their brand of milk in as well... I have been buying only Horizon or Stoneyfield Farm milk to avoid Rgbh... Anyone know the story here or can recommend any website that might know if the products are truly high standard organic?

Also-- I avoid harsh chemicals whenever possible...cleaning with vinegar and baking soda... Alas.... it seems we may have a powder post beetle problem in our basement and I will have to hire an exterminator (I dread the use of pesticides and we have not had anything done to the house since we moved here in summer of 2005..... Does anyone know of a natural treatment that is as non-toxic as possible to humans and cats but will be effective in getting rid of the beetles? I have read something about borax or that family.... Any one know how I would get in touch with an exterminator who uses the more natural treatments?

Thanks in advance...
Deb

[kristen.c]

Hi Deb- welcome to OGD!

To answer a few of your questions-

Try this link to locate a green pest control company in your area. I don't know of any all-natural treatments for beetles, so maybe some other members can help out with that. Find pest control services that use natural pest control or organic pest control products.

As far as your local supermarket pulling other brands for their organic ones, I'd definitely send an email if you have the time. Let them know that as an organic shopper you like to have options when it comes to brand choice. I know I'm more likely to purchase a store-brand if there is an equal brand to compare it to as far as ingredients, size, price, etc. Also, if there are specific products that you like it's possible that you can have the store order them for you if you ask at the customer service desk.

I completely understand your frustration- I used to shop at Superfresh a lot when I could get great triples deals on the organic stuff. With so many other stores in our area to choose from, I basically stopped going in there at all once they stopped carrying as many organic products. The same thing happened- they pulled some of my favorite brands and replaced them with a smaller selection of their own private label.

Again, welcome! Definitely feel free to ask more questions when you have them.

[OHeather]

Welcome Deb! Glad you could join us.

If the private label has the USDA Organic symbol on the box/product, you know that it at least meets those standards. You can also check the other organizations that test organic products, like QAI, and see how their standards differ from the government's.

As for comparing store vs. name brand, I don't think that their really is an easy way to compare. You can look at the ingredients on the box. You can call the company and ask about where they get their ingredients. I think it's important to note that sometimes the store brand really is the same product as the name brand, just with a different outside look.

[ocean_brez]

Welcome to Organic Grocery Deals Deb! We're so very happy that you found us & decided to join our online family. We value our members, as you are what makes this green community a success.

Our goal at OGD is to help you learn how to go green and in the process learning more about purchasing organic foods, living healthy and being more environmentally conscious. In this process, we encourage green living conversations as well as ideas in maximizing your savings in our quest of going organic. So, don't be shy, come on in, make yourself at home, and have fun! After saying hello & introducing yourself we suggest you start with the forums listed below. Please make sure to read the stickies & the FAQ within each forum below as they contain important & helpful info compiled just for you. Remember, you are not alone as there is always someone available to help if you have questions or concerns.

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[purplemoon2008]

Hi and Welcome! I can't offer any suggestions about your powder beetles:( ~ good luck!