When you hit the produce section of your grocery store, do you opt for the conventional products or do you head over to the smaller section of organic produce? Is one really healthier for you than the other? Organic costs more, that’s for sure. But does that price equal healthier food? A recent study is saying, no, not really.
The Associated Press reported about a new study conducted by doctors from Stanford University. The doctors put the great debate over organic and non-organic to the test. Based on their extensive testing, they found very little evidence supporting the high cost of organic food as a means to achieve better health.
While it’s true that a diet high in organic fruits and vegetables will lower one’s exposure to pesticides, the produce grown conventionally contains only a small amount of pesticides that’s within safety limits.
Some of the testing in the study included monitoring the pesticide levels in children. Those on organic diets did show a lower level of pesticides, however, the amount was still very low for those who ate conventional produce. In other words, the study didn’t warrant a major case for organics.
Another item that separates organic food from conventionally grown food is the issue of antibiotics. The chances of food contamination is equal for both types of products, however, when it comes to bacteria in meats like chicken or pork, the germs in non-organic meats are more likely to be resistant to antibiotics. This happens because of their exposure to many antibiotics most commonly used for fattening animals. Antibiotic-resistant products in the market can cause public health issues. However, the study points out that the risk and difference is again, rather insignificant.
There are still reasons to choose organic over conventional even though his study says the reasons are small; small reasons that come with a hefty price tag, too. Some choose organic because it tends to be local or has a richer flavor. These issues can’t really be disputed. However, if this was the final say on which one really is better for you, it seems you could side with either one and probably be just fine.
Also Read:
The Pros and Cons of Going Organic