Organic Foods: The Real Deal

560 Words2 Pages

The growth of the organic food industry has been drastic, growing at a rate of 20% annually since 1990. Consumers think that organic foods have more nutritional value, better taste, and have a smaller environmental footprint. Consumers have been willing to spend 10% to 40% more than their traditional counterpart. However, there is little evidence that organic food contains more nutrients, has a better taste, or has less of an environmental impact than traditional foods.

In a recent study conducted at the University of Michigan, researchers discovered consumers tended to believe that organic food is more nutritious non organic food. However, the American Cancer Society has noted: It is commonly thought that organic foods may be more healthful because they reduce exposure to some chemicals. It has also been suggested that their nutrient composition may be better than non-organic foods. Whether this translates into health benefits is unknown.

The United Stated Department of Agriculture has also drawn a similar conclusion in a report stating that “Claims for nutritional superiority...

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