Of late a regular sight in any super market or neighborhood grocers are Organic products, which are undeniably mainstream. Is the product worth the additional money which we shell out? Here we explain the benefits which we get for the extra bucks and tips to spend wiser.
Organic foods are produced using methods that do not involve synthetic inputs such as pesticides and chemical fertilizers. They are also not processed using irradiation, industrial solvents, or chemical food additives. Organic food production is a regulated industry and the producers are required to obtain special certification in order to market their food as organic.
But American Dietetic Association says, “There is no evidence that organic foods are superior over traditional foods.” The government stops short of making any scientific claims that organic food is safer or more nutritious than conventional foods.
Experts confirm that organic fruits and vegetables probably are better for the environment, and they’re often a good way of ensuring to get fresh food. The simplest reason is that often, organic food is produced locally and is therefore fresher. But although a recent study on organic nutrition levels showed a higher level of some vitamins, minerals and antioxidants, experts are divided on whether that translates to better health.
If you are ready to shell out the extra bucks, experts recommend choosing organic foods that have the most nutritional impact. Fruits and vegetables with thin skin or no skin are smart buys, since they have a higher risk of cross-contamination and pesticides.
Here are a few organic foods you may not want to waste your money on: fruits with thick skin like bananas, avocados and pineapples. Vegetables like broccoli, cabbage, and corn do not require a lot of pesticides, so buying regular may be just fine and saves your hard earned money in times of bad economy.
Vidya Sethuraman
India Post News Service