When a food is called organic, it vastly refers to how it is grown. The processing and storage of a foodstuff is also taken into consideration when defining it as organic food.
Typically, these standards will be variable for each country. But in general, a foodstuff is defined as organic if it is grown without:
- Only limited use of natural pesticides is permitted
- Preservatives or artificial colors
- Regular use of antibiotics
- Genetically modified ingredients or GMOs
- Growth stimulants like hormones
A host of control bodies are involved with the production of organic foods. They inspect marketers, distributors, and producers regularly to ensure that they meet the required standards for organic foods.
The frequency of these checks is at least yearly. When any foods meet the standards, they are given an organic certificate.
Do chemicals used on crops end up in food?
Yes, it is possible but is widely subject to the farming practices. If foods are produced using the conventional practices, the odds of them having a higher level of hormones, antibiotics, or pesticides are more. A related argument is that when food is conventionally grown, it is frequently under conditions not regulated as much.
In the same coin, organic food doesn’t need to meet consumer expectations in all cases in terms of being entirely pesticide free. This may have been caused because of factors such as spray drift.
A noteworthy point that should be mentioned here is that food is not the sole source of exposure to chemicals for us. Instead a host of factors lay repercussions over the same. This includes our place of residence, how we garden, if our pets are parasite-free, and the cleaning products we use for our home.
Are organic foods healthier for us?
A school of thought tells us organic foods are not necessarily healthier for us. However, in this regard, views are vastly variable.
Besides containing fewer pesticides, it is likely that organic foods are richer in micronutrients like phosphorus, magnesium, iron, and vitamin C. They are likely to hold more anthocyanins.
However, we do not have definitive results about these matters even though it remains one of the hottest debated topics. The core reason for the same is that organic food production is a complex, broad industry wherein many variables are involved.
Focusing on the health perspective, we see that many perceive that consuming organic food reduces the risk of obesity and allergy. The evidence on the same is also pretty much inconclusive because of different compounded factors. Just as an instance, even if one consumes organic food, it does not conclude that your lifestyle is healthy even otherwise.
A few of the other studies exist as well, which tell us that consumption of organic dairy improves skin health by reducing the incidence of allergic dermatitis.
What organic foods should I invest in?
One has to shop wisely for organic foods because they are more towards the expensive side. Strategizing your purchase of organic foods puts you in a position to derive the maximum value for your budget. Below, we have listed 10 foods with the highest pesticide levels and 10 foods that are generally clean.
10 foods with the highest pesticide levels
- Strawberries
- Kale
- Spinach
- Peaches
- Nectarines
- Pears
- Apples
- Chilli/peppers
- Grapes
- Cherries
10 foods that are generally clean
- Avocado
- Pineapple
- Sweetcorn
- Onions
- Frozen peas
- Papaya
- Asparagus
- Kiwi
- Honeydew melon
- Cabbage
Is organic food better for the environment?
Organic food is the right choice for all environment-conscious consumers because when producing organic food, the attention lies on improving soil health and fertility. Organic practices are focused on the long term.
Other key focus areas in organic farming are biodiversity, wildlife, and the work of natural predators that help maintain ecological balance.
Does organic food taste better?
Telling the difference between organic and non-organic produce is not always easy. The two are not easy to identify from the naked eye. Besides, the taste is also likely to be similar in both cases.
It is preferable to locally source organic vegetables and foods because, with superior freshness, the flavor improves notably.
Are there any reasons why one should refrain from buying organic foods?
The key reason why most families refrain from buying organic foods is that it is priced higher. In the UK, organic premium makes the cost of organic food higher by 89%. This is primarily because, in the case of organic foods, the cost of production is higher. Farmers use labor-intensive methods for pest control and weeding in this case. Besides, organic farms are smaller and their yields are low. The cost of certification further reflects on the pricing of products.
It is best to prioritize consuming a nutritious diet over consuming organic foods
It is a must to incorporate the requisite servings of nutrient-dense foods like fruits, whole grains, vegetables, legumes, and dairy in our diet. One should not miss out on consuming a healthy and varied diet, irrespective of whether these foods are organic or not. Such a diet supplies vitamins and minerals that are a must for good health.
Besides, fresh fruits and veggies also make an excellent source of fiber that balances blood sugar levels and supports gut health. Processed foods or the foods with high sugar content are best avoided, even if they claim to be organic.
