It is widely believed that conventionally farmed food is less nutritious than those organically cultivated. How much of that belief is based on facts and scientific studies? Not a lot actually. The fact remains that there is little research done on this area. Few studies that do exist show that there is no significant difference in the nutritional values of the produce, organic or conventional. Other studies , for instance , one done on tomatoes indicate that the vitamin C content in organic tomatoes were 40% higher than those cultivated conventionally. 

But is it just nutritional values that we look for when it comes to food? Organically cultivated food , often termed, naturally cultivated is scientifically known to have more antioxidant properties than conventionally farmed food. This is universal across almost all produce. There is also the factor of safety and use of harmful chemicals in conventional foods which is non existent in organic food.

Its important to take a quick look at what are the benefits of organic foods when compared to conventional food before you make a shift to organic food. Undoubtedly, organic food is healthier, but its important to know why its healthier before you make the shift

Nutritional Values : As far as nutritional values go, there is no research which indicates a major difference in nutritional values of produces cultivated organically or conventionally. If it does exist, there may be small differences. There is also a lack of research in this area. For the few researches done, Organically produced heirloom crops are known to have almost the same nutritional values through out in most crops. Some crops like tomatoes do indicate a higher level of certain nutritional values. 

What most of the research do agree upon is the antioxidant properties of organic food is much higher than those conventionally cultivated. A higher percentage, up to 40% more antioxidants were noted in organically produced food as compared to those conventionally farmed. This alone is a good reason to shift to organic produce , but wait till you read further

Harmful chemicals : Most of the time, we do not worry about harmful chemicals in the food we eat. May it be eggs, chicken, beef, vegetables or fruits, we have no way of knowing where the food came from, how it was processed and what chemicals were used during the entire process. While it may not seem important, the use of pesticides usually remain in traces in all vegetables and fruits. Poultry and meat farmed from open grazed farms have a distinct difference in nutritional values too. While  in traces, consumed over a longer period of time, the chemicals will be present in your body. These trace chemicals over a period of time, cause a range of problems from poor immunity to cancer.

Taste : Food should taste good. It should have the smell and taste which is natural. Lack of good smell or taste is not negotiable. We all agree that food is rated by taste and smell. The better the vegetables taste and smell, the more inclined we are to purchase them. Fruits are intended to be fragrant and juicy. If it does not have these properties, you are consuming food just to ensure that its filling your body requirements. If you have tasted organically produced food, you would be able to compare the taste to that which was traditionally cultivated. If you have always consumed conventionally farmed food, you may be at awe when you taste the same vegetable or fruit, organically produced. The taste and smell is distinctive and different. It is indeed several notches higher.

Variety : There is also the question of Quality and variety. Heirloom tomatoes are known to be tangy sweet, fleshy and juicy. Conventionally farmed tomatoes usually come from hybrid seeds. These tomatoes are engineered for higher yield, resist pest and disease. While it may be a good thing to produce a lot of tomatoes with conventional farming and hybrid seeds, there is a distinctive difference in taste and quality when compared to organically produced heirloom seeds. Now there is a distinctive difference in nutritional values too. Heirloom seeds are different to hybrids in almost all areas. You will see higher acidity in tomatoes cultivated organically with heirloom seeds. 

So, Should you consume organic ? Are there any benefits to consuming organic food? Is there any significant difference in nutritional values of the food cultivated organically? Most of the time the answer is Yes. The nutritional values though not distinctive cultivated organically or otherwise, may vary significantly when compared to heirloom varieties and hybrid. While consuming organic food may be a good option, Choosing heirloom varieties , organically produced will be a lot better than just consuming any organic food.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions) on “Is Organic Food More Nutritious Than Conventionally Farmed Food?”

Q: What is organic food?

A: Organic food refers to agricultural products, including fruits, vegetables, grains, dairy, and meat, that are produced without the use of synthetic pesticides, chemical fertilizers, genetically modified organisms (GMOs), and growth hormones. Organic farming relies on natural methods to enhance soil fertility and pest control.

Q: Is organic food more nutritious than conventionally farmed food?

A: The nutrient content of organic food and conventionally farmed food can vary depending on several factors, including soil quality, farming practices, and crop varieties. While some studies suggest that organic food may have higher levels of certain nutrients and antioxidants, the overall differences in nutritional content between organic and conventional food are generally considered to be small.

Q: Does organic farming impact the level of pesticides and chemicals in food?

A: Yes, organic farming significantly reduces the level of synthetic pesticides and chemicals in food products. Organic farmers use natural methods such as crop rotation, beneficial insects, and composting to control pests and improve soil health, thereby reducing the need for chemical interventions.

Q: Are there any specific nutrients that are consistently higher in organic food?

A: Some studies have reported slightly higher levels of certain nutrients, such as vitamin C, vitamin E, and certain minerals like iron and magnesium, in organic food compared to conventionally farmed food. However, the variations in nutrient levels can be influenced by multiple factors, and the differences are not always consistent.

Q: Can organic farming practices influence the taste and flavor of food?

A: Organic farming practices that focus on natural and sustainable techniques can enhance the taste and flavor of food. Many consumers appreciate the rich and authentic flavors of organic produce due to the nurturing of soil health and the absence of synthetic chemicals.

Q: Does organic meat and dairy have higher nutritional value compared to conventionally produced counterparts?

A: The nutritional value of organic meat and dairy products can be influenced by the animals’ diets and living conditions. Organic livestock are typically fed organic feed without synthetic additives, and they are not administered growth hormones or antibiotics. These practices can lead to differences in the nutritional profile of organic meat and dairy compared to conventionally farmed counterparts.

Q: Is organic food safer to consume compared to conventionally grown food?

A: Organic food is generally considered safe to consume as it adheres to strict standards and regulations. Organic farming practices aim to minimize exposure to harmful pesticides and chemicals, reducing potential health risks associated with their consumption.

Q: Are there any significant environmental benefits to choosing organic food?

A: Yes, organic farming practices promote biodiversity, enhance soil health, conserve water, and reduce pollution. By avoiding synthetic inputs and focusing on sustainable techniques, organic agriculture has a positive impact on the environment.

Q: Is organic food more expensive than conventionally farmed food?

A: Organic food tends to be relatively more expensive than conventionally farmed food due to higher production costs, labor-intensive practices, and lower economies of scale. However, the prices of organic products are gradually becoming more competitive as demand increases.

Q: Should consumers exclusively choose organic food for better health and nutrition?

A: The decision to choose organic or conventionally farmed food depends on individual preferences, beliefs, and budget considerations. While organic food may offer some potential benefits, conventionally farmed food can also provide essential nutrients as part of a balanced diet. A diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole foods, regardless of their farming method, can contribute to overall health and nutrition.

Reference

• https://www.discovermagazine.com/health/is-organic-produce-more-nutritious-than-conventionally-grown-fruits-and
• https://core.ac.uk/download/pdf/47140068.pdf