Your question about organic food, now answered

What is organic food?

Organic food is food produced using methods of organic farming. The method does not involve use of any synthetic inputs like synthetic or chemical fertilizers.

Is consuming organic food safe?

There is insufficient data, to comment on the safety of organic food, over food grown using chemical fertilizers and pesticides. Some studies state that organic food is devoid of fertilizers and hence, there is no exposure to cancer causing cells, and thus are safer. Many diet experts, however, believe that all types of fruits, vegetables and whole grains should form the central part of an individual’s diet, regardless of whether they are grown conventionally or organically.

Is organic farming and private gardening the same?

No, the organic food production industry is a heavily regulated industry, distinct from private gardening. A country requires producers to obtain special certification, in order to market food as organic within their borders. And, the organic food is produced in a way that complies with standards set by national governments and international organizations.

Is organic food more nutritious than conventionally grown food?

Presently, no one can say for sure, whether the organic food is more nutritious than conventional food. Many studies conducted on the nutritive value of the organic food, found that there were marginal differences. A few studies have reported that organic produce have higher levels of vitamin C, certain minerals and antioxidants. But, the differences are so small that they have no impact on overall nutrition.

The plus point for organic food is that there is no use of synthetic pesticides. But, to provide nutrients to the soil, there have been reported use of dung and manure on the soil used for organic farming. Such use of manure on the soil increases the chances of presence of the bacteria E. coli in the soil. Hence, along with the soil being a live one, it is also loaded with bacteria which can be harmful to the population.

Diet experts, however, believe that all types of fruits, vegetables and whole grains should form the central part of an individual’s diet, regardless of whether they are grown conventionally or organically.

Which food produce is tastier?

Some argue that organic food is tastier – the reason being that they are marketed and sold near their area of the harvest. Hence, never be surprised if you find organic produce fresher, juicier and tastier compared to the conventional ones.

But isn’t organic produce is costly?

Organic foods typically cost 10-40% more than the conventional produce. But, if you are more interested in reducing the pesticide in your food, buy organic versions of the food whose conventional counterparts may be high in pesticides like spinach, apple, peach, and strawberries.