The battle between organic and non-organic foods is all the rage these days. In addition to there being a price difference, there are a lot of reasons why some people choose organic while others are still in the non-organic aisles of the grocery stores. First, let’s take a look at the major differences and learn why organic options are set at a different price point.
First and foremost, conventional foods still use chemical fertilizers for plant growth, whereas, organic foods receive growth stimulation by way of natural fertilizers such as compost and manure. Because of this and the fact that there are lower levels of toxic metals, organic food is more likely to have the antioxidants that promote health. In fact, some scientists believe that just by switching to organic fruit and vegetables, you are essentially adding an additional two portions of the recommended five a day fruits and veggies. Some researchers on the other hand, have mixed feelings over whether choosing organic foods are really all that much better for you.
Many people believe that there is a clear difference between organic and non-organic foods, and non-organic fruits and veggies look a little too flawless, with a shiny hue to the outside. On the other hand, organic items are less “perfect” looking and have a variety of different colors outside the norm and may even reveal blemishes. The reason for this is that processed foods are treated with several different growth-enhancing substances, having to be subjected to the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) standards.
One of the main reasons why organic is considered better than non-organic, is the role that antioxidants play in these products. As we’ve discussed in various other posts, antioxidants are responsible for a multitude of health benefits, including the prevention and treatment of heart disease and cancer, and organic foods contain up to 69% more antioxidants. With that said, it’s hard to rationalize why one would opt for non-organic when given the choice. However; the cost factor is a big part of the problem. Organic food is typically pricier than non because of the amount of time that is needed to create a product that is free of chemicals and growth hormones that are the norm for conventional farmers.
The choice to go organic is certainly a personal one, and while research certainly supports the fact that there are a ton more antioxidants readily available in the organic products, there is still a lot of research to be had regarding other benefits.
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