• Tech Tech

Report details far-reaching benefits of eating organic produce — here's how it compares to nonorganic options

"Some of the most detrimental pesticides are used for conventional produce production."

"Some of the most detrimental pesticides are used for conventional produce production."

Photo Credit: iStock

Organic produce packs quite the punch when it comes to better health and environmental impact.

The Packer shared the findings of a report by the nonprofit group The Organic Center, which reviewed 85 scientific studies that looked at the health and environmental impacts of organic produce and agriculture over the last three decades. 

The findings suggest that organic produce is more nutritious and better tasting than nonorganic, as it contains more antioxidants and nutrients. 

🗣️ Do you worry about pesticides in your food?

🔘 All the time 😨

🔘 Sometimes 🫢

🔘 Not really 🤷

🔘 I only eat organic 😤

🗳️ Click your choice to see results and speak your mind

For instance, The Organic Center said that organic oranges contain 11% more vitamin C, while organic green beans contain more key nutrients like potassium, magnesium, sodium, calcium, iron, and zinc.

The group also noted that organic produce lessens humans' exposure to pesticides, both for those eating it and those growing it. Pesticides are also harmful to wildlife, including pollinators like bees. In fact, one study suggests that pesticides' impact on bees is worsening because of rising global temperatures.

Pesticide exposure has long been a concern for proponents of organic farming. While many believe that simply rinsing produce will remove pesticides, new research argues that this practice does not completely rid fruits and veggies of these harmful chemicals.

FROM OUR PARTNER

Stay hydrated and refreshed this holiday season — without any sugar or harmful additives

Nuun’s zero-sugar hydration tablets are a perfect, guilt-free way to enhance your water throughout the day. You’ll get five essential electrolytes for everyday hydration — with zero grams of sugar.

Plus, Nuun tablets are certified vegan and gluten-free, and they’re the perfect size to keep in your car, purse, or anywhere you'll want a healthy, restorative drink.

Learn more

The good news is that organic agriculture is on the rise. According to another article from The Packer, total organic-certified land in the U.S. has been going up since 2000, reaching 4.89 million acres in 2021. For instance, food cooperative Organic Valley recently announced plans to welcome 100 more small organic farms to its family by the end of the year.

"Fruits and vegetables are so important to our health, as is avoiding toxic chemicals," Amber Sciligo, The Organic Center's director of science programs, said in a press release

"Since some of the most detrimental pesticides are used for conventional produce production, we want to share with consumers the scientific data that shows the protection from chemicals that organic provides and the increased nutritional value, along with the host of notable environmental benefits of organic produce crop systems. An informed consumer makes better choices for themselves and their families."

Join our free newsletter for weekly updates on the latest innovations improving our lives and shaping our future, and don't miss this cool list of easy ways to help yourself while helping the planet.

FROM OUR PARTNER

There's a reason dermatologists personally use this daily moisturizing sunscreen more than any other brand

Dermatologists see and understand skin at a much deeper level than the rest of us, and they know that the perfect SPF both protects and corrects your skin. That's why they trust, recommend, and personally use EltaMD more than any other brand.

EltaMD's clinically tested formulas are designed with dermatologists to meet the needs of any skin type or condition. They're also designed for consistent daily wear to build long-term resilience with a moisturizing, lightweight, non-comedogenic texture — plus hyaluronic acid to help reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.

Learn more

Cool Divider