The price of groceries is a topic of many on and offline discussions these days. You might be among the many wondering if it's worth it to pay even more for organic, given the bite inflation already takes out of your wallet.
What's the real truth about organic versus conventional produce? Is the stuff with the special label truly healthier for you? Does it confer any additional benefits to justify the price, or is it a silly fad for people with more money than common sense? Here's what the science says.
What Are the Differences Between Organic and Conventional Farms?
The difference between organic and conventional farms and their products goes well beyond the sticker price. Farms that earn the organic certification must follow specific standards to protect consumer choice in the marketplace. These guidelines largely govern how growers produce these foods.
- Fertilizer and Pesticide Use
Farms that are certified organic may not use any synthetic fertilizers or pesticides. Why does that matter? One concern is that the residue can end up on your food, but that isn't the only issue.
The overuse of synthetic fertilizers and pesticides produces higher nitrous oxide emissions, a greenhouse gas far more dangerous than carbon dioxide. Furthermore, synthetic nitrogen contaminates groundwater supplies and can leak into surrounding freshwater, rendering it unsafe for consumption, swimming or wildlife habitats.
- Sustainable Practices
Additionally, organic farms use more sustainable practices than conventional operations. One of the reasons for the higher price tag is that much of the work comes from hand labor instead of emissions-creating machines. Additionally, they employ processes like no-till and alternative tilling that maintain soil integrity and nutrients for future generations.
Do You Get Greater Health Benefits From Organic Produce?
There's no doubt that organic farming is better for the planet. It's also more sustainable for local agricultural communities that make their living from the land. What benefits does your body get for that steep price tag?
Is Organic Produce Really More Nutritious?
The general rule is that what benefits the planet is good for humans, and organic produce is no exception. Studies have found that organic produce is higher in the following nutrients:
- Potassium
- Calcium
- Magnesium
- Iron
- Zinc
- Vitamin C
- Carotenoids
- Phenols
- Flavonoids
- Antioxidants
Additionally, many anecdotal and subjective reports indicate that these foods taste better and have superior texture.
It's not only humans who benefit from eating organic foods. Livestock labeled as organic also consumes these products, making them healthier, too. For example, organic eggs are higher in omega-3 fatty acids, the healthy fats your body needs to lower cholesterol and maintain brain and heart tissue. They're great sources of lean protein to aid your weight loss goals.
How Dangerous Are Pesticides and Fertilizers?
Many people choose organic produce out of concern for pesticide and fertilizer residue on their food. These substances may cause disruptions in several human bodily systems and you should know the risks when deciding whether to pay more. For example, pesticides affect:
- The nervous system: May increase the risk of disorders like multiple sclerosis, Parkinson's disease, dementia and mood disorders.
- The hormonal system: May cause problems with fertility, sexual performance and desire or growth and metabolism issues.
Additionally, consuming these substances may increase your cancer risk and cause skin and eye irritation.
- What Health Improvements Have Others Enjoyed From Going Organic?
Back in 2015, the Swedish grocery Coop ran into trouble for their video ad showing the benefits of eating organic in lowering pesticide levels in the body. Critics argued that the store exaggerated their claims. However, later research vindicates them - it demonstrates that eating an organic diet does significantly lower synthetic pesticide concentrations in human children and adults.
Researchers saw some of the greatest reductions in levels of two pesticides:
- Clothianidin: Can cause weight, developmental and hormonal changes.
- Malathion: Can cause headaches, nausea, dizziness, cramps, diarrhea, blurred vision and increased heart rate.
It's important to note that the EPA deems the concentrations of these chemicals safe in conventional produce. While organic may be better, you aren't taking an extraordinary risk.
Do the Benefits of Organic Produce Justify the Price?
Ultimately, only you can decide if paying slightly higher prices for organic produce is worth it. In a perfect world, everyone could afford the foods they prefer, but that's not yet reality. Even though certain pesticides and fertilizers may pose health risks in large concentrations, the EPA deems typical use safe for most people.
However, budget-conscious shoppers might find bargains by substituting organic snacks for less healthy choices that have also experienced steep inflationary price hikes. For example, some brands of corn chips now retail for over $7. You could find a bag of organic almonds for roughly the same price while slashing your intake of artificial preservatives.
If you want to switch but have limited funds, consider swapping equally-priced, less-healthy snacks for organic ones. You can green your carbon footprint and improve your nutritional intake at once.
Where to Find Organic Produce for Less
Another option is to find organic produce at a lower cost. Your first stop should be your local farmer's market. They often offer a wider variety at lower prices, and since everything grows locally, you can talk directly with the producers about the methods they use.
Another alternative? Roadside stands. If you're fortunate to live somewhere like Pennsylvania Dutch Country, you'll find enterprising organic farmers selling their excess to those who drive by. Finally, consider planting a garden. You don't get any fresher organic produce than that which you pluck from your backyard an hour before eating.
Is Organic Produce Worth Paying More for Than Conventional Produce?
Only you can decide if the benefits of organic produce justify the price. Organic goods are more nutritious than conventional produce and tread more lightly on the planet. They're also free of harmful substances that could affect your health. However, the choice ultimately comes down to your pocketbook.
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