In addition, research shows that there are no nutritional differences between organic and conventional foods. The nutrients found in fresh produce are based on numerous factors, including weather conditions and state of maturity, and not on whether organic or conventional practices are used. Organic foods are not healthier in and of themselves in terms of nutrients. You're still getting the same benefits from conventionally grown foods as from organic foods.
Non-organic foods tend to be cheaper than organic foods because growing and growing methods produce more food per acre. Losses are minimal due to insect damage and the lifespan is usually longer. Most of the foods available in supermarkets are not certified organic and consumers are familiar with these brands. Because non-organic brands are consistent in taste, texture and quality, consumers know what to expect from their purchases and may generate less waste.
Studies that compare the nutrient content of organic and non-organic foods have yielded mixed results. Eating organic foods can reduce exposure to artificial chemicals, added hormones, and antibiotic-resistant bacteria. However, is it really true that organic is healthier? The idea of organic food is a great concept, but it can also make a hole in your wallet. Evidence on whether organic foods contain more antioxidants and nutrients than conventionally grown foods is conflicting.
The researchers found very few differences in nutritional content, other than slightly higher levels of phosphorus in many organic foods and a higher content of omega-3 fatty acids in organic milk and chicken. Check out the Environmental Working Group's Clean Fifteen list of foods you can buy normal and the Dirty Dozen list of foods you should spend more on to buy organic products. There isn't enough strong evidence available to show that eating organic products provides health benefits compared to regular foods. Organic farming techniques may be less harmful to the environment, but conventional agriculture offers more yield per acre, reducing the amount of land needed to grow food.
Overall, the levels of pesticides in organic and non-organic foods were within the permitted safety limits. While several studies indicate that organic foods can have significant positive results, others have not found sufficient evidence to recommend organic rather than conventional foods (1). Health experts and consumers have long been debating whether organic foods are more nutritious and safer than conventional foods). In addition, the “natural” label on foods means that they do not contain artificial flavoring ingredients or colors, but that doesn't mean that they are organic or pesticide-free.
Choosing organic foods can reduce exposure to toxins, pesticide residues, and antibiotic-resistant bacteria. Following their example with guilt, I can't help but wonder if organic food has as much of an impact on my family's health as it does on my wallet. Older observational studies suggest that organic foods may reduce the risk of allergies and eczema in children and infants. And when it comes to livestock, animals must be fed with organic feed, live on organic land and raised without antibiotics or routine hormones.
You can still buy organic products without overspending if you're more selective with the types of organic products you buy. .
