“Organic” vs. Conventionally Grown Foods

“Organic” or Conventional??? Natural fertilizers (manure / compost) Birds, insects & “mating disruption” to manage pests / disease Crop rotation, handweeding & mulch to manage weeds Conventional Chemical fertilizers Insecticides to manage pests / disease Herbicides to manage weeds http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/organic-food/NU00255

Why do most people choose organic foods? Increased nutrient intake Decreased chemical intake Decreased allergy symptoms Increased health All of the above

Government Regulations FCNS 201, Chapter 1 6/4/2018 Government Regulations Monitored by the Environmental Protection Agency “Pesticide Residue” – pesticide that remains on food “Pesticide Tolerance” – maximum legal level for pesticide residue Risk assessment Health risks Environmental risks Pesticide Residue – amount of pesticide that remains in or on food

Government Definitions FCNS 201, Chapter 1 6/4/2018 Government Definitions Organic products must be USDA certified Can use the USDA Organic symbol if 95% or 100% organic.

What does the research say about the benefits of organic foods? 2012 Review (240 studies) No difference in nutrient content No difference in E.coli contamination risk No difference in allergy outcomes Organic foods - less pesticide residue Conventional foods – may have many different pesticide residues

Pros & Cons Organic Conventional Less chemicals More costly Better for the environment May spoil more quickly May look unsightly Conventional More chemicals Less costly Longer shelf-life – allows access to greater variety of foods Looks prettier

Recommendations for reducing pesticide intake Wash & SCRUB all fruits and veggies Running water Peel & Trim Discard outer leaves Trim fat from meats (chemicals collect in fat) Eat a variety of foods Buy foods in season http://www.epa.gov/pesticides/food/tips.htm

Environmental Working Group Non-government agency Reviews FDA reports “The Dirty Dozen” “The Clean 15”

“The Dirty Dozen” - 2014 7. Sweet bell peppers Highest levels of pesticides per the EWG 7. Sweet bell peppers 8. Nectarines - imported 9. Cucumbers 10. Cherry tomatoes 11. Snap peas - imported 12. Potatoes Apples Strawberries Grapes Celery Peaches Spinach

“The Clean 15” - 2011 8. Mangoes 9. Papaya Avocado 10. Kiwi Sweet corn Lowest levels of pesticides per the EWG 8. Mangoes 9. Papaya 10. Kiwi 11. Eggplant 12. Grapefruit 13. Cantaloupe 14. Cauliflower 15. Sweet potatoes Avocado Sweet corn Pineapple Cabbage Sweet peas Onions Asparagus

What are the benefits of choosing organic foods? To improve nutrient intake To reduce intake of chemicals To reduce incidence of allergies To reduce chemicals in the environment Both B and D