We have heard much about organic or natural food but without realizing the difference between the two. The media has played a vital role in popularizing and advocating the use of organic food but most people still know little about what it is or consists of. Saudi Gazette spoke to Ruqiya Al-Usmani, a consultant in nutrition and head of the Nutrition and Dietetics department at Baksh Hospital in Jeddah, about the difference between organic and natural produce. “The popularity of organic and natural food is due to the growth of ethical consumerism. Environmental, social and political issues are of utmost importance in nutrition, organic farming and while a consumer is debating whether to ‘go organic' or not,” explained Al-Usmani. The word ‘organic' refers to the way farmers grow and process their produce, including fruits, vegetables, grains, meat and dairy products. Organic farming is designed to encourage soil and water conservation and reduce pollution in the community in general. Farmers who grow organic produce and meat don't use conventional methods to fertilize (or control) weeds or prevent livestock disease. For example, instead of using weed killers, organic farmers may conduct sophisticated crop rotation and spread mulch or manure to keep weeds at bay. Is organic food healthier? “In terms of promoting organic agriculture as an environmentally sustainable form, organic food is the way forward. However, there is no conclusive evidence that organically grown foods are more nutritious or concentrated in nutrients than conventionally-grown foods, except perhaps for vitamin C which may be higher in organically-grown leafy vegetables and potatoes,” stated Al-Usmani. “Having said that, one (recent) study comparing organically-grown berries, strawberries, and corn versus their conventionally-grown counterparts showed statically greater amounts of phenolic compounds (phytonutrients with antioxidant capabilities).” Al-Usmani also explained the difference between organic and natural produce: Quality and appearance Organic foods meet the same quality and safety standards as conventional foods, but the difference lies in how the food is produced or processed and handled. Pesticides Conventional growers use pesticides to protect their crops from molds, insects, and diseases. Some people buy organic food to limit their exposure to these residues. Environment Some people buy organic for environmental reasons. Organic farming practices are designed to benefit the environment by reducing pollution and conserving water and soil. Cost Organic food is costlier than conventional food products due to more expensive farming practices. Taste Taste is a subjective and personal consideration, so decide for yourself! But whether you buy organic or not, finding the freshest foods available may have the biggest impact on taste. Some people claim that organic food is less processed so retains more of the product's original flavor. Buying tips Buy fruits and vegetables that are in season to ensure quality. Try to buy the produce the day it is delivered to the market to ensure that you get the freshest food possible. Read food labels carefully Al-Usmani explained that reading labels carefully before purchasing any product is the best key to selecting the right product. Just because the product says ‘organic' or claims that it contains organic ingredients doesn't necessarily means it is a healthier alternative. Some organic products may still be higher in sugar, salt, fat or calories. Wash all the fresh fruits and vegetables thoroughly with running water to decrease the amount of bacteria and, if appropriate, use a small brush to scrub the produce before eating, especially the outer skin of apples, potatoes, cucumbers and others. – SGThe difference between conventional farming and organic farming: Conventional u Apply chemical fertilizers to promote plant growth u Spray insecticides to reduce pests and disease u Use chemical herbicides to manage weeds u Give animals antibiotics growth hormone and medications to prevent disease and spur growth. Organic u Apply natural fertilizers such as manure or compost to feed soil and plant u Use beneficial insects and bird mating disruption or traps to reduce pests and disease u Rotate crops till hand weed or mulch to manage weeds. u Give animal organic foods and allow them u outside access Use prevention measures such as rotational grazing, a balanced diet and clean hosing to help minimize disease.
