Are organically grown foods really healthier than conventionally grown foods?

Typically yes, because chemical pesticides aren't used on them. Several pesticides are known to be harmful to humans, but in larger doses than the average consumer is exposed to. However, there is no government standard for "organic," and it's a loosely used term in the US. In much the same way "free range" means chicken aren't in a cage but may be squeezed together in a tiny shed, organic can often mean that less pesticide is used or simply a different kind of pesticide.

Answer

In Australia, and - I believe - New Zealand and the UK there are strict controls over what can be called organic, or - with eggs - free range (where the fowls are allowed to run loose and scavenge, as well as being carefully fed. At night they are usually confined to a roomy, closed barn to roost in order to keep them from predators.

Inspections of these farms are diligent and regular.

I typically use organic produce and free range eggs because I believe in supporting any efforts to avoid pesticides, or caging egg-laying fowls (and I feel better about the chickens!). Frequently I've been asked if the flavour or quality is better than conventionally produced foods, and to be perfectly honest I don't think there's much tangible difference, except in some types of meat.

It's a bit like using expensive salt when the same product is available for half the price - and I'm yet to hear someone say, hey you've used cheap salt in this sauce!

However, I firmly consider children, from the time they begin solids, should be exposed to as few chemicals in food as possible; this also applies to the widespread habit of spraying chemicals around the home to clean surfaces, 'freshen' the air and so on.

We are seeing more and more cases of chemical allergies, and when children are exposed to various chemicals this can lead to later allergic reactions. And it can do no harm at if we all reduce our chemical intake wherever possible.

I grow some vegetables and herbs, and wouldn't dream of using pesticides on them. Instead I put out occasional snacks for local birds, who repay me by eating pests and, via their digestive systems, planting more food for us.

The fastest-selling eggs in our local supermarket are free range, and pesticide and other chemical-free produce are becoming hugely popular.

And the producers said it couldn't be done! These products have not been available sufficiently long for a proper study into the long-term health benefits, but I'd say better assume they are healthier.

First answer by ID1159875617. Last edit by Patwoods. Contributor trust: 64 [recommend contributor]. Question popularity: 78 [recommend question]

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