How Much Does “Organic” Really Matter?

When you stop at the grocery store for some apples and broccoli, you may be torn between the fruits and vegetables that have “organic” stickers, and those that don’t. The labels are different, but so are the price tags. Should you really spend more money on organic produce, and how much of an impact does it actually have on your health?

Currently, there isn’t a huge amount of conclusive evidence that organic food is healthier, but there are still many reasons to believe it could be better for your body in the long run.

Here’s why it may be worth it to shop in the organic aisle. 

Organic Foods Contain Fewer Pesticides

Pesticides are often used by farmers growing fruits and vegetables. These chemicals protect produce from common diseases, insects, and pests. Pesticides may sound dangerous, but fortunately, there are regulations in place to ensure that the chemicals used in our food are relatively safe.

Ironically, however, organic produce is sometimes grown with a small amount of pesticides. Buying an apple with this label may not entirely mean that you have zero exposure to these chemicals. It’s up to you whether you want to pay more or not, knowing organic food is not always grown completely without pesticides. If you are particularly concerned about the chemicals, it may feel better to shop for organic produce when you can, since the amount of pesticides used is reduced. 

Make sure to remove the top layer of lettuce and other vegetables that may have been lightly sprayed. As a best practice, wash all produce items — whether organic or not — for at least 30 seconds.

They Contain More Nutrients and Omega-3s 

There is some evidence suggesting that organic foods may contain more nutrients than conventionally grown produce. The small to moderate increase in nutrients lies in the number of flavonoids, which have antioxidant properties. There is also a higher amount of Omega-3 fatty acids in organic meat and dairy, thanks to the requirement that organic farms use grass and alfalfa to feed cattle.

Organic Items May Contain Less Bacteria

Organic meat may contain less bacteria than conventionally raised meat. Conventionally raised livestock have a higher risk of being resistant to antibiotic treatment, which could make it harder to prevent and remove bacteria. 

There Is Less Toxic Metal in Organic Foods

Organic grains contain less toxic metal than conventionally grown grains. Researchers believe this may be due to a ban on synthetic fertilizers in organic farming, that when used, can result in additional metal presence in grains.  

Look for a label that says “Certified Organic” on your bread and other grain products, such as pasta or oatmeal. It may also say “No Genetically Modified Organisms (GMOs).” 

Overall, buying organic produce, meat, and grains may be slightly beneficial for your body. Additional studies are needed, however, to further understand the impacts of organic food on our health and on the environment. If buying organic is too expensive for your budget, don’t sweat it, you’ll still get all the vitamins and nutrients you need from non-organic fruits and veggies.

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2 Replies to “How Much Does “Organic” Really Matter?

  1. I meticulously avoid foods with labels saying Non GMO or Organic.
    Many GMO crops require much lower pesticide use than conventional crops while some offer other benefits. Golden Rice was designed to correct 3rd world vitamin A deficiency that causes many deaths and blindness, but it has been blocked by rabid anti GMO activists.

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