The facts about organic food

A new campaign starts out this week to raise awareness of organic food. So what's the difference between organic and conventional produce and what are you paying for? Here's what we know so far...

NUTRIENTS AND HEALTH:

The Food Standard Agency commissioned research to look at differences using studies from 1958 to 2009. No significant differences were found for levels of vitamins and minerals when the best quality studies were assessed, with the exception of nitrogen and phosphorus, which aren't thought to have an impact on health at the levels found. No differences in health were found from eating organic or conventional produce, though in this case the number of studies was limited.

Weather organic or conventional produce, nutrient levels are far more effected by many other factors such as types of soil, weather conditions, storage type, length of storage and transport, crop variety and how the animal is fed. Consider these if nutrient levels are your priority. 

FOOD SAFETY

Both organic and conventional produce are under the same safety regulations. So no difference here

PESTICIDES AND ADDITIVES

Lower levels of pesticide residues have been found in organic, but all pesticides are tested for safe limits before being accepted for use and both conventional and organic are monitored to ensure levels are below the safety limits set. Therefore levels in conventional produce and organic should both be below safe limits. 

PRICE GAP

Organic food has traditionally been more expensive, but the gap is reducing. The latest price check found less than £5 difference on the total of a range of items purchased over a week. 

SO WHY ARE WE PAYING?

Organic food has plus points. It represents high standards in all areas. It has a high focus on the environment, sustainability, soil care using crop rotation, natural manuring methods for fertilisers, strict rules on which pesticides can be used and how, no genetic modification allowed, high animal welfare standards. All standards are governed by EU law for minimum standards, with a monitoring body to ensure these standards are met. You may be getting standards well above these minimums. Ultimately, you are paying for quality in all these areas. 

ON BALANCE?

Consumer choice is important, so you choose what's important to you. If the environment is your priority then consider organic, but be aware of all issues such as where the food is produced, are air miles and pollution involved from shipping long distances? 

MY OPINION: I'm all for organic farming and protection of our planet. Best of all for the environment and for fresh produce has to be growing your own wherever you can, but obviously that isn't possible for all. If cost or availability is an issue I'd rather you focus on having a healthy balance of food, quality lean cuts of meat and fish with lots of fruit and vegetables of any type, organic or standard. The facts are, the benefits of a vegetable and plant based diet is protective for health no matter which one you choose.