To Buy or Not to Buy

Naturally-grown. More nutrient-rich. Pesticide-free. These are just some of the claims made in the growing number of organic grocery stores, farmers' markets, and professional growers of organic produce. But what are we referring to when we label fruits or vegetables 'organic'? And are organic fruits and vegetables healthier than the non-organic variety?

More and more, organic is the catchall term affixed to any fruit, vegetable, or consumer good that contains no animal by products, hormones, and pesticides. But as one source explains, "Organic growing is a system which uses natural materials to nourish the soil which in turn produces vegetables, fruits and other crops. It does not use pesticides, herbicides, and artificial fertilizers." In essence, organic farmers go against the grain of the agricultural community in their prohibition of these agricultural innovations. They disagree with the idea that the aim of farming is efficiency and economy rather than the ultimate quality of the produce.

Unfortunately, nutritional research conducted over the last six decades by various agriculture and soil experts have produced mixed results. Any difference in nutritional value stems from the balance of elements in the soil--not the vegetables and fruits it produces. A 1993 FDA report on pesticides supports these findings. It found that all pesticide levels present in fruits and vegetables were well within tolerance levels and were safe for consumption. Any remaining residue from chemicals used after harvest could be removed by thoroughly washing produce at home.

In the end, it all boils down to consumer preference. Research has largely been inconclusive about any health benefits from consuming organic produce. And a seven-year investigation from the FDA has demonstrated that chemicals used during harvest remain at safe levels. However, as the Canberra Organic Growers' Society points out, consumers may choose to buy organic for a host of other reasons including its better taste. Well-nourished soil leads to well-nourished produce which naturally tastes better.