The quality of the food and how it is grown is what makes the food organic or non-organic. Organic foods do not contain synthetic chemicals. Organic vegetables and organic fruits are not altered genetically to change their shape or color. Organic food products like meat, grains, dairy, fruits, and vegetables. There are certain criteria that farmers and manufacturers must adhere to term fruit, vegetable, meat, or dairy products as “ORGANIC”.
Organic farming is defined as an agricultural process that does not use chemical or synthetic pest control or fertilizers. Biological fertilizers and pest control are made out of natural waste from plants and animals. Organic farming was initiated as an answer to the environmental problems inflicted by using synthetic fertilizers or chemical pesticides. Organic farming is a new modern approach to agriculture that improves, maintains, and repairs the overall ecological balance.
Benefits of Consuming Organic Food
Organic farming aims to reduce pollution and promote self-sustaining autonomous resources and modern methods for cattle farming. Organic farms follow a solid code of conduct and adhere to procedures than non-organic farmers. Listed below are the benefits of consuming organic food:
Enhanced nutritional value
Studies suggest that organic food products have more nutritional value including high levels of antioxidants in vegetables and fruits. A six-year research study found more antioxidant levels and inflated flavonol in organic onions over non-organic onions. Organic food products are rich in minerals, protein, vitamins, micronutrients, and enzymes compared to non-organic food. Organic vegetables like potatoes, lettuce, cabbage, carrots, and spinach were found to have more Vitamin C, magnesium, phosphorus, and iron and reduced levels of nitrates than conventionally grown ones.
Reduces the risk of cancer
Consumption of organic food minimizes the risk of cancer and other life-threatening diseases. A new research study conducted by JAMA Internal Medicine found that those who consumed organic fruits and vegetables regularly reduced their chances of developing cancer. There is zero content of synthetic pesticides or chemical fertilizers in organic food products which makes the food chemical-free, more naturally grown, and nourished with nutrients benefits.
Presence of healthy fats
Healthy fats like omega-3 fatty acids are present in fish, meat, and eggs. Omega-3 fatty acids lower the chance of heart attacks, and strokes, reduce blood pressure, and promote better brain and eye health.
Use of fewer chemicals
More than 700 chemicals are approved by the government for using pesticides or fertilizers in non-organic foods. Organic foods contain natural fertilizers like manure, which keep the nutritional value of the food intact without compromising the quality of the food. Eating Organic food minimizes the consumption of chemicals in the diet. No artificial flavors, colors, or ingredients are allowed in organic food.
No GMOs
GMOs is a genetically modified organism. GMOs are instilled in the food product making them last longer. There is an absence of GMOs in organic food products. In today’s food culture, GMOs are present in all food items that pose a threat to health and give rise to the build-up of toxins in the pancreas. There is still research going on for long-term effects. The use of fertilizers, weedkillers, insecticides, and fungicides is strictly prohibited in producing organic food.
Harmful effects of GMO foods on the body:
- Cancer
- Loss of Nutrition
- Allergic Reactions
- Immunosuppression
Eco-friendly
Organic farming promotes eco-friendly practices. It helps in reducing pollution, use less energy, and reserve water than non-organic farming.
Organic farming enhances environmental development:
- Organic farming builds soil health
- Organic farming does not use harmful chemicals
- Organic farming lets out fewer greenhouse gases that pollute the air.
- Reduces Soil Erosion
- Reserves water
- Ethical farming
- Fresh and Healthy Food
Organic fruits and organic Vegetables
Regular or Non-organic fruits are sprayed with pesticides and they are genetically modified to enhance colors, alteration in shape or size, injecting hormonal injections for rapid growth. Vegetables like spinach, cucumbers, potatoes, and sweet peppers contain high levels of pesticides, therefore it is best to buy organic versions of these vegetables. Organic fruits are free from chemical pesticides or fertilizer which keeps their health benefits intact. Fruits you must buy organic:
- Apples
- Peaches
- Cherry tomatoes
- Grapes
- Strawberries
Conclusion
In recent years, organic food has contributed to the GDP, and the organic industry is rapidly growing. More people are aware of the advantages of consuming organic foods.
