Food and Fashion are two of my Favorite F words. But what about Fabric? Did you ever think it was important to look at the labels of your clothing other than to find their washing instructions? Well maybe it’s time you did. Due to loose farming regulations in the U.S., it’s become common practice to contaminate not only our food crops with pesticides, but also the cotton crops we use for the garment industry. What does that mean for you and me? Well, for one, itchy clothes for those who have skin sensitivities. But second, and most importantly, hazards to our health.
The EPA (Environmental Protection Agency) considers 7 of the top 15 pesticides used in farming as “possible,” “probable,” and “known” human carcinogens. It seeps into your food, drinking supply, and believe it or not, your clothes. Like parasitic fleas hitching a ride on the nearest dog, these pesticides cling to cotton fibers, and when absorbed by the skin, can cause scary side affects such as asthma and god knows what else. Yiiikes!
So to do what you can to fight against these archaic farming practices, buy clothing made with organic cotton. Such as Alternative Apparel’s Eco-Heather Crew. Not only do brands like Alternative Apparel produce lines of eco and body-friendly clothes, but they’re cute and super comfy too!
Some people feel guilty about throwing away paper, for others its sentimental keepsakes. But one area where we should all agree to feel guilt free, is throwing out old food. Yes, there are starving children in China. Yes, we have children starving here too. But I’m sorry, you preserving that month ol’ stale bread in the fridge or trying to use that expired mayonnaise, just isn’t going to solve any worldwide hunger problems. The only real purpose expired food has, is making you sick!