Heather Bedard, C.H.E.
Organic is a big buzz word in the health world. A buzz, that if you think about it, is sad that we must have. To delineate between the industry of genetically modified organisms and chemical pesticides, from the produce grown without it, the word organic specifies a cleaner, safer option. At least, that’s the theory. To suss this out, we need to know what the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) defines as organic.
The USDA’s website defines organic as follows: “USDA certified organic foods are grown and processed according to federal guidelines addressing, among many factors, soil quality, animal raising practices, pest and weed control, and use of additives. Organic producers rely on natural substances and physical, mechanical, or biologically based farming methods to the fullest extent possible. Produce can be called organic if it’s certified to have grown on soil that had no prohibited substances applied for three years prior to harvest. Prohibited substances include most synthetic fertilizers and pesticides. (1)
An important thing to keep in mind, is that while organic produce is generally not sprayed with chemical pesticides, that does not mean that it is pesticide free. There is a list of over 25 organic pesticides approved for use on organic produce. These include copper sulfate and Tretracycline (an antibiotic). Organic growers that use antibiotics such as this are not eligible to labeled as organic in the European Union. There is no limit to how much of these pesticides are used or for how long. In addition to this, there are at least 25 synthetic pesticides that ARE approved for organic use according to the USDA’s National List of Allowed and Prohibited Substances. (2)
Confused yet??
Some organic pesticides have the potential to be toxic to humans in large doses. One example being Rotenone which was taken off the organic pesticide market in 2019 when it was confirmed that it was toxic to fish, the environment, and humans. When organic produce is randomly tested, it is only tested for chemical pesticides. So, when you eat organic it is still important that you make sure you wash it thoroughly.
After all is said and done, are there any benefits to buying organic produce over mainstream produce? The answer is, yes. The first benefit that I see, is that the produce is not genetically modified. It is much closer to its original state. Secondly, if you are concerned with limiting or eliminating chemicals from your foods, organic is a good way to ensure that. Although organic produce uses pesticides as stated above, you can generally rest assured knowing that they are as natural as possible and free of chemicals.
Lastly, organic produce is typically grown using more sustainable farming practices and is better for the soil. Supporting businesses that utilize these methods are key to keeping these products available and easily accessible.
Bottom line in my opinion? If you can afford it, buy in line with your values and live local. When you can’t, eating conventionally grown produce is better than not.
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1 "Organic 101: What the USDA Organic Label Means." U.S. Department of Agriculture
2 https://www.ams.usda.gov/rules-regulations/organic/national-list