Organic Food – The Most Interesting Facts

The term “Organic” refers to the process used to produce specific foods. Organic foods have been grown without synthetic chemicals, antibiotics, hormones, or genetically modified organisms (GMOs). To be classified as organic, a food product must be free of any artificial food additives. Artificial sweeteners, preservatives, colouring, flavouring, and monosodium glutamate (MSG) are examples of such ingredients.

To encourage plant growth, organically produced crops usually apply natural fertilisers such as manure. Organically raised animals do not receive antibiotics or hormones. Organic agricultural practices tend to enhance soil quality and groundwater conservation white it also decreases pollutants and is potentially healthier for the environment.

Fruits, vegetables, dairy products, and meats are the most often purchased organic foods. Organic processed goods, such as beverages, cakes, and meat alternatives, are also available. 

So what are the advantages of organic food? In this article, we discuss the comparison between organic and non-organic foods.

Reduced Chemicals

Many people choose to buy organic food to minimise the use of synthetic chemicals. Consuming these foods may lower your exposure to pesticide residues and antibiotic-resistant microorganisms, according to studies. 

According to one research, cadmium, an extremely toxic metal, is less likely to be found in organic produce. Cadmium can build up in the body and cause damage. Pesticides were also four times more likely to be discovered in non-organic plants. An accumulation of pesticides in our bodies could cause headaches, birth abnormalities, more stress on weakened immune systems, and some cancers. Although rinsing, boiling, and peeling food can minimise harmful toxins, it does not remove them entirely. However, the risk of pesticide residue in foods is low and unlikely to be dangerous.

Organic Food – Environmental Factors

Organic foods have a lower environmental effect than non-organic. Organic is the best choice if you are worried about how green you are or how your choices affect the environment. Organic farming has several environmental benefits. Organic farms emit fewer greenhouse gases, require less energy, and have less of a hazard of polluting soils and rivers. As previously stated, organic foods do not include any hormones, antibiotics, or synthetic chemicals. Click here to read more about why organic is better for the planet.

Yet, for many people, the disadvantages of buying organic may exceed the benefits. Organic goods are more costly than conventional – this fluctuates based on the product and season, but you will most certainly spend more if you choose organic. Another disadvantage of purchasing organic is that you may be limited to when each product is in season.

Micronutrients And Antioxidants

“Organic” does not always imply “nutrient-rich”. These items are still highly processed, with high calories, added sugar, salt, and fat. Organic foods that are unhealthy, such as cakes, doughnuts, and soda, should be consumed sparingly. Given the fact that they are organic, many goods may be deficient in nutrients.

When considering what to eat, it may be more advantageous to pick depending on your nutritional needs and the minerals and vitamins present in the food than organic versus non-organic. 

Studies have shown that organic foods have more significant antioxidants and micronutrients, including zinc, iron, and vitamin c. Furthermore, one study found that substituting organic fruit, veggies and grains for non-organic ones may give additional antioxidants to your diet. To protect themselves, organic plants do not use chemical pesticide sprays. Alternatively, they increase the production of their defensive chemicals, such as antioxidants – this might explain why certain plants have higher antioxidant levels than others.

Organically grown crops have been found to contain lower levels of nitrate. High nitrate levels link to an enhanced risk of some forms of cancer as well as methemoglobinemia. This disorder impairs the body’s capacity to transport oxygen in young children.

Types Of Micronutrients

Selenium and iodine are two minerals essential for health, found in non-organic milk at higher levels than organic milk. However, organic milk and dairy products may have more significant quantities of omega-3 fatty acids, as well as slightly higher levels of iron, vitamin E, and specific carotenoids. A higher omega-3 fatty acid consumption is linked to various health advantages, including a lower risk of heart disease.

While many studies have indicated that organic foods can have substantial favourable results, some have concluded that there is insufficient evidence to suggest organic over non-organic.

The research outcomes vary significantly because the nutritional content of food is affected by various factors, including soil quality, weather conditions, and harvested crops. Differences in animal genetics and breed, the animals’ consumption, the time of year, and the farm type may influence dairy products and meat substances.

Organic Food – What Do We Know?

Food that is organic may minimise your exposure to synthetic chemicals, hormones, and antibiotic-resistant microorganisms. They generally include more beneficial elements, such as antioxidants, than conventionally cultivated foods. Yet, it may be more expensive and out of the food budget for some. 

Synthetic chemicals and GMO’s don’t only exist in food, but also in supplements. In a previous blog, we talk about the difference between synthetic and natural vitamins. What’s the difference, and why should you care? Find out by clicking here.