Organic?

Fresh, organic produce via Denis Vrubleski's flickr photostream

Everyone has heard of the recent recall of salmonella-tainted peanuts. After thorough investigation, officials have found "rodent infestation, mold, and bird droppings" at peanut plants, in addition to bacterial contamination. And these plants had federal organic certification too. What people don't know is that the "USDA organic" label found on overpriced food items does not necessarily indicate food safety; according to my dictionary widget, organic just means "produced without the use of chemical fertilizers, pesticides, or other artificial agents." An inspector at the Texas plant that produced tainted peanuts had inadvertently allowed the plant to keep the "organic" label on its food even though it did not even have a state health certificate.

Mmmm peaches (whimsy's flickr photostream)

So why choose organic?

Although the outbreak has caused many to question the integrity of organic food, this one incident should not spur your mistrust. Facts don't lie: organic foods have been found to be richer in nutrients and better for the environment. For example, higher levels of ascorbic acid (vitamin C) and polyphenols (natural antioxidants) are among the many health benefits. The absence of potentially toxic fertilizers and pesticides also means less pollution done to the environment. As long as the safety and quality are certified, organic is the way to go. So the next time you bite into a succulent, delicious, organic white peach, take pride in the fact that you are getting 8% more vitamin C than that in a non-organic peach.


jennie