Organic or conventional foods? The debate continues…

To foster discussion, a study concludes that both types of food provide the same amount of nutrients. The main difference between the two remains the presence or absence of pesticides, antibiotics, or potentially toxic substances. Keep reading so you can make an informed decision when shopping.

If you are one of those who consumes organic food to protect health, here is some news that will make you think: a study published in the Annals of Internal Medicine states that organic foods are not safer or healthier than traditional alternatives. The difference they found between the two is that organic foods have less contamination from pesticides and other chemicals like hormones or antibiotics.

To reach these results, a group of researchers from Stanford University in the United States analyzed the conclusions of 237 previous studies on this topic. Among them were 17 studies on diets comparing human consumption of organic products versus conventional ones, and 223 studies that considered nutrient levels or contamination from bacteria, fungi, or pesticides in products like fruits, vegetables, grains, meats, dairy, poultry, and eggs, produced organically and conventionally.

After the analysis, the authors found no consistent differences in vitamin content. Only phosphorus was very abundant in organic foods, but according to the researchers, this is not clinically significant since few people are deficient in this nutrient.

No differences were observed in the protein and fat content between organic and conventional dairy, although previous studies had suggested that organic milk contains higher levels of omega-3 fatty acids, which could reduce the chances of suffering from heart disease, cancer, and arthritis.

However, some specialists who advocate for the benefits of organic products argue that this study did not take into account the environmental impact of farming practices or animal husbandry. Organic farming does not use synthetic pesticides, fertilizers, radiation, or chemical additives, and organic livestock does not use antibiotics or growth hormones.

The study also does not consider other qualities such as taste, aroma, and colors, which often stand out or are noticeable with the first bite when comparing, for example, fruit grown in an organic garden to that produced conventionally.

In conclusion, the debate remains open and the decision is entirely personal. If you choose organic products, make sure they are authentic and of good quality. But if they are not accessible to you and you still want to take care of yourself, don't worry, you can reduce exposure to pesticides and other chemicals by taking some measures like the following:

• Wash the surface of pears and apples with a kitchen brush before eating them, even if you are going to peel them. • Scrub the surface of potatoes and other tubers under running water to remove dirt, grime, and pesticide residues. • Rinse carefully under running water (it can be hot water) the leaves of celery, lettuce, and other vegetables. Do not use soap. In addition to pesticides, you will also remove residues of dirt or small stones. • Whenever possible, buy local products that are obtained fresher. • Also buy seasonal products. They are generally cheaper and have not needed refrigeration.

Finally, keep in mind that the consumption of organic products is especially recommended for: pregnant women, babies, the elderly, people whose immune systems are compromised or developing, and those who may be more susceptible to additives and pesticide residues. Remember that the most important thing is for the body to receive the nutrients it needs daily, and therefore, everyone should strive for a balanced diet and consume their five daily servings of fruits and vegetables, whether organic or conventional.