The debate over whether organic food is healthier than conventionally grown food may be over, according to results from a $25-million study into organic food -- the largest of its kind to date.
In October 2007, Times Online reported on a four-year, European-Union-funded study which found that:
* Organic fruit and vegetables contain up to 40 percent more antioxidants
* Organic produce had higher levels of beneficial minerals like iron and zinc
* Milk from organic herds contained up to 90 percent more antioxidants
The researchers obtained their results after growing fruit and vegetables, and raising cattle, on adjacent organic and non-organic sites. They say that eating organic foods can even help to increase the nutrient intake of people who don’t eat the recommended five servings of fruits and vegetables a day.
The UK’s Food Standards Agency, which has formerly said that there is no difference between organic and conventional foods, is reviewing the research findings.
But please remember that just because something says "organic" doesn't necessarily mean it is good for you. My grocery store now offers organic potato chips and cookies - which, although a healthier choice than their non-organic siblings, are still highly processed, high-glycemic foods. So its better to stick with organic fruits, vegetables and whole grains.
