Chandler Ray Podcast Assignment February 1, 2015

Estimated Time: Topic: Organic Food Hello my name is Chandler Ray and I am a dietetic intern with the University of Maryland College Park. There are many decisions to make while browsing the supermarket aisles or when ordering of a menu, including whether or not to buy organic. However, there is much debate as to whether organic foods are in fact healthier and more nutritious than their conventional counterparts. So here are some things to known when making the decision to buy organic versus conventional foods.

The term organic refers to the way food is grown and processed. Organic food is grown using methods that avoid most synthetic materials, such as pesticides, fertilizers, and Genetically Modified Organisms (GMOs). Regulations also ban the use of food additives, such as preservatives, colors and flavorings, and artificial sweeteners. Organically raised animals must eat certified organic feed and are raised without antibiotics, growth hormones, or any animal-by-products. Organic farmers further support animal healthy by providing animals access to the outdoors so they can exercise their natural behaviors.

The USDA oversees organic farms and businesses to ensure organic food is produced using organic methods and government-approved materials. If a food bears the USDA organic label, it means it is produced and processed according to those USDA standards. Each year organic farmers receive annual onsite inspections and residue testing to ensure the integrity of organic products from farm to table.

Organic farming is also better for the environment. Organic agricultural practices conserve water, reduce soil erosion, use less energy, and reduce pollution. Additionally, pesticides used in the growing conventional foods have been found to be highly toxic to nearby birds and small animals as well as people who live close to or work on farms.

One concern with organic foods is cost. Organic foods are typically more expensive than their conventional counterparts. This is, in part, due to more expensive farming practices. Additionally, organic fruits and vegetables may spoil faster since they dont contain preservatives. While eat an entirely organic diet may be difficult to afford, it may be worth it to buy certain organically produced foods.

The Dirty Dozen list was created as a shoppers guide for foods that are highly recommended to be purchased as organic. These foods can be heavily contaminated with pesticide and insecticide residues and include apples, strawberries, grapes, celery, spinach, sweet bell pepper, imported nectarines and snap peas, cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, and potatoes. So whether or not you decide to go completely organic or opt for a mix of conventional and organic foods, always consider which foods are safest to eat and are the best value.

References:

http://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-living/nutrition-and-healthy-eating/in-depth/organic-food/art-20043880?pg=1

http://www.nal.usda.gov/afsic/pubs/ofp/ofp.shtml

http://annals.org/article.aspx?articleid=1355685

http://www.organic.org/home/faq

https://www.organicfacts.net/organic-products/organic-food/health-benefits-of-organic-food.html

http://www.usda.gov/wps/portal/usda/usdahome?contentidonly=true&contentid=organic-agriculture.html