December 30, 2017
Many people prefer organic products due to the belief that they are a healthier alternative to conventional foods. However, contrary to this assumption, there is no scientific evidence to support these claims. In this article, we will analyze the most common arguments for organic products and shed light on the corresponding scientific evidence.
Pesticides and Chemical Contamination
A common misconception is that organic products are completely free of pesticides. However, even in organic farming, approved plant protection products are used, which are considered environmentally friendly. Nonetheless, these can leave residues in the products. But don't worry, this is not a concern. Both with organic products and conventional foods, it's nearly impossible to ingest toxic amounts.
Pesticides are therefore not really a problem, whether you choose organic or conventional products. There's also the assumption that organic foods have a higher nutrient content than conventional ones. But even this idea isn't backed up by scientific research. A systematic review of studies comparing the nutrient content of organic and conventional foods found no significant differences. So there's no clear evidence that eating organic products leads to a higher intake of essential micronutrients.
And let's not forget: Organic products are usually significantly more expensive than conventional foods. Now that you know there's no nutrient-based reason to go organic, you can safely save your money (especially if you're on a tighter budget). Conventional foods are by no means an inferior choice.
The only advantage organic products sometimes (but not always) have is that they might have a lower carbon footprint. Often they're regional, and sometimes they use pesticides that are less harmful to the environment. But in the end, that's something everyone has to weigh for themselves.
Scientific Articles and Studies
Are Organic Foods Safer or Healthier Than Conventional Alternatives?
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/22944875
Nutritional quality of organic foods
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/19640946
Human health implications of organic food and organic agriculture
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5705693/
Choosing Organic Pesticides over Synthetic Pesticides May Not Effectively Mitigate Environmental Risk in Soybeans.
https://journals.plos.org/plosone/article?id=10.1371/journal.pone.0011250
Closing Words
There is no compelling evidence that organic products are healthier or more nutrient-rich than conventional foods. However, people who prefer organic products for personal reasons are welcome to continue doing so, but please refrain from spreading nonsense.