14 September 2010

Organic Versus Conventional Produce

Introduction
These are my thoughts around the organic versus conventional debate. In my view there is no question that organic is better for you and better for the environment. My opinions however are just that. If you feel concerned about this topic, then feel free to perform your own research and form your own opinions.

Salmonella
Salmonella is a fecal contaminate. Feeding chickens with contaminated food can cause that bacteria to enter their bloodstream and into their ovaries where its passed on to the eggs - maybe the ones that you are eating. Studies have shown that organic eggs contain far less salmonella than those produced using conventional practices. To prevent salmonella poisoning, you can try to buy organic, free-range eggs where the chickens are eating grass and feed with no hormones, steroids, etc

Mineral and Vitamin Content
Records show that nutrient content of produce have decreased dramatically in the last 50 years. This is most likely due to bad farming practices which deplete the soil of these nutrients. See the following link: http://asap.sustainability.uiuc.edu/members/dananderson/wortfolder/food%20composition.pdf which shows the changes in mineral content between 1950 and 1999.

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