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Why you should choose organic over conventional

by Elizabeth Kriechbaum |

The choice to eat organic food over conventionally grown is becoming increasingly popular so here are 5 reasons why you may want to make this choice yourself.   

 

1. A sustainable method for generations to come 

Growing food organically is simply growing the way nature intended. Organic methods of growing are a proactive approach where the aim is to establish an ecological balance and avoid issues with pests and diseases, while also prioritising the cultivation and maintenance of soil fertility [4]. Organic farming processes focus on the lasting health of the soil and the environment to make sure that the land can produce nutritious, delicious, sustainable food for future generations [4]. 

2. Increased nutrients and less toxic metals 

Research shows that food which is grown organically contains higher amounts of certain types of flavonoids with amazing antioxidant properties. Another advantage is that organic grains are proven to have substantially lower levels of cadmium [3] which is a toxic heavy metal.

3. Organic farming helps to create healthy soil and higher quality produce

The technique of crop rotation has been around for many generations and is a quintessential feature of organic farming. By growing a different type of crop every season, this approach prevents nutrient depletion in the soil, generates higher nutrient availability for future crops, prevents pests and diseases, and protects against soil erosion [1,4]. This improves the quality of both the soil and the food produced. These techniques are conscious of producing both high-quality produce and beneficial environmental impacts.

4. Helps maintain water quality 

As organic farming does not use synthetic fertilisers and pesticides, there is a smaller risk of groundwater pollution [4] which saves our waterways from tainted runoff.

 

5. Little to no chemical residues 

Choosing to eat organic food lowers your exposure to the chemicals used to grow food conventionally. One example is glyphosate which has been shown to interfere with hormones and is an endocrine disruptor [2].   

Deciding to start buying organic food is a big commitment, so you may find it difficult to switch your entire diet to organic all in one go. When you decide that it’s time to start, a helpful resource to look at is The Environmental Working Group’s list of foods most affected by pesticides: the ‘Dirty Dozen’, and those least affected: the ‘Clean Fifteen’. This can help you prioritise which foods you should buy organic when first starting. This list is published every year as they retest produce and create a new list.

 

Activated Nutrients has always been an advocate for eating organic, and our range of certified organic wholefood blends makes choosing to eat more organic food easy.

 

References:

1. Anusuya Rangarajan. (2012). Crop rotation effects on soil fertility and plant nutrition. Retrieved from https://www.sare.org/Learning-Center/Books/Crop-Rotation-on-Organic-Farms/Text-Version/Physical-and-Biological-Processes-In-Crop-Production/Crop-Rotation-Effects-on-Soil-Fertility-and-Plant-Nutrition

2. Gasnier, C., Dumont, C., Benachour, N., Clair E., Chagnonb, M-C., & Séralini, G-E (2009).  Glyphosate-based herbacides are toxic and endocrine disruptors in human cell lines. Toxicology. 262, 184-191. doi:10.1016/j.tox.2009.06.006. 

3. Mayo clinic Staff. (2020). Organic foods: Are they safer? More nutritious? Retrieved fromhttps://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/nutrition-and-healthy-eating/in-depth/organic-food/art-20043880 

4. Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations. (2020). Organic agriculture: What are the environmental benefits of organic agriculture? Retrieved from http://www.fao.org/organicag/oa-faq/oa-faq6/en/