Today's Tip: Should you buy organic?

So you head out to do your grocery shopping, and whether you go to your local grocer, a large chain or a superstore, you will find an "organic" produce section.  You'll also find other products in the store - such as meats - labeled organic. Without exception, these products are more expensive than "regular" items, and may often appear to be more nutritious.  So are they worth the extra cost?  Since I've had this question come up a few times recently, I thought I would list a few talking points so you can make an informed decision about what is best for you.

One of the most interesting reports I found was a new Stanford study published into today's Annals of Internal Medicine - it sifted through 237 published studies comparing organics to conventional foods to answer the question "is organic worth the extra cost?" 

Many people believe organic is healthier and more nutritious, but the study's lead author said they were a bit surprised they didn't find that to be true in study.  Conventional and organic produce scored equally on vitamin and mineral content. Only one nutrient — phosphorus — was significantly higher in organic versus conventionally grown produce. There was no difference in protein or fat content between organic and conventional milk, though evidence from a few studies suggested that organic milk may contain significantly higher levels of omega-3 fatty acids. 

Organics might not be more nutritious but will likely lower your exposure to pesticides and dangerous bacteria.  Crops bearing the USDA organic seal of approval are raised without synthetic pesticides, petroleum-based fertilizers, or sewage sludge. Organic animals must be fed organic feed free of antibiotics or growth hormones. Anything labeled organic can't be genetically engineered or treated with radiation to prolong shelf life.

Sticking with organic chicken and pork appeared to limit exposure to antibiotic-resistant bacteria, which some experts warn may be contributing to the rise of hard-to-treat infections in humans. However, not all the organic produce tested was 100 percent pesticide free. While they were 30 percent less likely to have traces of chemicals than conventional fruits and vegetables, the study showed that the pesticide levels of all foods fell within allowable safety limits. 

Bottom line, the study proved that the risk of a diet without fruits and vegetables is greater to a person's health than the risks posed by pesticide residues. In addition, not all conventionally grown foods contain residue nor are organics always the more virtuous choice. A good rule of thumb: Skin can protect the fruit or vegetable from any pesticide exposure so when the outside can be peeled away, it may not be worth spending the extra cash for organic.

No doubt, when we lived in California, the produce was readily available at numerous roadside stands and farmers' markets and I loved getting fresh produce, as well as new things I hadn't tried before. We have also had our own garden, which is another great way to have fresh produce and to control what products are used.

So I'll conclude by saying that personally, I do not recall having ever intentionally purchased any organic fresh foods like fruits, vegetables or meats at a grocery store.  True, I loved my frequent shopping at the produce stands (oh those wonderful strawberries!) or in my own garden, but my typical grocery shopping happens outside of the organic area of the store.  My husband and I grew up on a farm and ranch, respectively, and we strongly believe that the majority of farmers and ranchers make very good choices with the way they raise their crops and animals. Think about it, if they didn't, would they have a very profitable business?

It's easy to get caught up in one article that you read or a study you hear about.  I encourage you to thoroughly investigate any new idea or concept, and determine if it is right for you and your family.  Wash your fresh fruits and vegetables, and feel confident that we live in an amazing country with the ability to produce fabulously healthy and abundant foods!