Organic foods seem to be everywhere we turn now. Places like Whole Foods, the Farmer’s Market, and Trader Joe’s proudly offer organic produce for consumers, and there’s a widespread belief that they’re healthier for you. How much truth is behind this statement? Are you really making a better choice for your body when you eat organic foods?
As opposed to “conventional farming”, “organic farming” makes use of natural fertilizers and limits the use of chemicals. It also severely restricts the use of food additives and works to prevent the degradation of soil and the environment. Do these decision made by organic farmers benefit consumers on a health level? A recent study conducted by Stanford University claimed that organic foods were not healthier than conventional foods. The study, in fact, claimed that there wasn’t a significant difference between conventional and organic foods. However, this cannot be definitively stated, as the studies conducted did not show long-term benefits of eating foods that were not treated with pesticides. The benefits of eating organic foods may be slightly more subtle and should be observed over a longer time period.
Although the health benefits of eating organic foods is still debated, it can be said with certainty that organic farming does benefit the environment, and many choose to eat organic foods for this reason alone. Whether you choose to eat organic or not, be educated about the food that you put in your body, and make sure to eat a well-balanced meal!
Citations
- Organic food ‘not any healthier’ from BBC News by the BBC <http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/health-19465692>
- Organic foods: Are they safer? More nutritious? from Mayo Clinic by Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research <http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/organic-food/NU00255>
Article by Nikita Rathaur
Feature Image Source: Sustainable Direction
