Is it Worth the Extra Money? Organic Food

Organic meat, poultry, eggs, and dairy products come from animals given no antibiotics or growth hormones. Organic fruits and vegetables are grown without the use of most chemical fertilizers or pesticides.

Experts admit the difficulty of establishing whether organic foods actually contain more nutrients. Some studies suggest that organically grown vegetables—especially potatoes and leafy greens—may contain more vitamin C and other vitamins and minerals. On the whole, however, there isn’t very much evidence showing organic food to be healthier.

On the safety issue, research indicates that organic foods generally contain fewer pesticides than nonorganic foods. Pesticides may pose health risks, particularly for children, infants, and developing fetuses.

As with the nutritional question, though, the bulk of the evidence does not show organic foods to be safer than conventional foods. In fact, the U.S. Department of Agriculture, which regulates organic foods, says that it makes no claims that they are safer or healthier than nonorganic foods.

Experts are currently finding ways to reduce pesticide levels in conventionally produced food. In the meantime, some people are buying organic foods as a way to lessen their exposure to pesticides. But this isn’t the only—or even necessarily the best—way to reduce pesticide exposure,say experts.

Did you know?
The U.S. government carefully monitors children’s exposure
to pesticides in the foods they commonly eat, including
tomatoes, potatoes, apples, chicken, and beef.

QUICKTIP
Are you interested in learning about healthy eating habits and ways to manage your weight? Call The Quest4Life Wellness Center at 828-757-6217 and ask about The Better Weigh. The focus of The Better Weigh is to teach healthy lifestyle changes that make it possible for participants to reach their ideal weight and maintain it.