What Are You Really Buying?
Bernard La Borie
June 06, 2025

In 1985, R.J. Reynolds—the tobacco giant—bought Nabisco. Not long after, Philip Morris followed suit, acquiring General Foods and, a few years later, Kraft.
That means two of America’s largest processed food producers were built by the same corporations that got us hooked on cigarettes. And now, they have major influence over what fills the shelves of our grocery stores—and, by extension, our homes.
Using the same tactics they once used to sell tobacco, these companies have reshaped the food system around hyper-processed products filled with additives, chemicals, and synthetic flavorings. The result? A nation addicted to food that barely qualifies as food.
We’re not told the full story of what we’re buying. But you can take back control.
Start by reading labels. Look for real ingredients. Choose organic. Avoid seed oils. (If you haven’t already, download the Yuka app—it’s not perfect, but it’s a great start.)
At The Virgin Organic, we’re committed to doing things differently. We produce certified extra virgin olive oil with full transparency—no blends, no shortcuts, no mystery ingredients. Just the best of what nature offers.
We’re building a better food future, one bottle at a time—rooted in sustainability, biodiversity, and honesty.
Support a family-run business that stands for something real. We’d love to welcome you into The Virgin Organic family.
My name is Bernard La Borie, founder of The Virgin Organic. Got a question? Call me directly at 415-623-6923. We’re a small, independent company—and your support means everything.
Compromise nothing.