From an eminent scientist who wishes to remain anonymous. The arguments will rage on but the important information is all about giving you choices.
This sounds like it would be a simple yes-or-no question, but it becomes quite complex when one starts probing various information sources. From a classical nutritional standpoint, the data is still mixed. Some studies suggest that there are higher levels of nutrients such as iron, zinc and antioxidants in organically grown produce. Others studies have found no significant differences. This may be due to the fact that plant varieties and even individual plants can vary widely in the amounts of vitamins, minerals and phytochemicals that they contain. For example, certain types of cantaloupes can have four times the vitamin A content of other cantaloupe varieties and a beneficial phytonutrient in broccoli, glucosinolates, can vary by as much as 50-fold from plant to plant. Still, even though this advantage isn’t clear cut, there are other factors to consider.
Organic crops are grown without chemical fertilizers or pesticides. This means that there will be no residue of these chemicals in the organic fruits and vegetables that you eat. Some argue that the products of national agriculture are unquestionably safe and the amounts of pesticide residue which may be present poses no significant health risk. But the way I see it, these residues do not add value to my food and might add risk to my food. Also, how much of the food that is in our grocery stores is actually grown in the United States and how much is imported? So if I can afford organic produce and value the difference, (which I do) I prefer to buy organic fruits and vegetables when the option exists. Other than the direct impact on our own health, another factor to consider is organic farming’s impact on other people. Using organic farming methods definitely poses less risk of soil, water and air contamination than use of synthetic chemicals so it is better for the global population as a whole. It must certainly be a positive factor for the farm workers who don’t have to apply toxic chemicals and constantly be exposed to pesticide and herbicide residues as they tend crops and harvest the produce. Personally, I also appreciate that organic produce is often grown by small, local growers. I believe that organic farmers, whether the operation is large or small, have made a positive choice that I would like to reward economically with my purchasing dollars.