Organic- What's the big deal?

Even though Chad and I are not eating 100% organic, I have been buying as much produce that is organic as possible. People, including myself, have steered clear of organic produce because of the questionable benefit and increase cost. I started to dig a little bit deeper about what makes a product organic? Is it safer to eat?

On the MayoClinic.com site I found a nice chart to illustrate the differences between conventional produce vs. organic produce.

Conventional	Organic
Apply chemical fertilizers to promote plant growth.	Apply natural fertilizers, such as manure or compost, to feed soil and plants.
Spray insecticides to reduce pests and disease.	Use beneficial insects and birds, mating disruption or traps to reduce pests and disease.
Use chemical herbicides to manage weeds.	Rotate crops, till, hand weed or mulch to manage weeds.
Give animals antibiotics, growth hormones and medications to prevent disease and spur growth.	Give animals organic feed and allow them access to the outdoors. Use preventive measures — such as rotational grazing, a balanced diet and clean housing — to help minimize disease.

So the major benefits I can see are that organic foods stay clear of the chemicals and pesticides that a lot of farmers commonly use on conventional produce. When addressing the question if organic is more nutritious than conventional produce Mayoclinic.com stated that "Researchers have concluded that organically and conventionally produced foodstuffs are comparable in their nutrient content".

I think even though the nutrition may be the same it makes sense that MayoClinic.com does list common concerns that can persuade people when choosing organic over other produce. See below.

Pesticides. Conventional growers use pesticides to protect their crops from molds, insects and diseases. When farmers spray pesticides, this can leave residue on produce. Some people buy organic food to limit their exposure to these residues. According to the USDA, organic produce carries significantly fewer pesticide residues than does conventional produce. However, residues on most products — both organic and non organic — don't exceed government safety thresholds.

Food additives. Organic regulations ban or severely restrict the use of food additives, processing aids (substances used during processing, but not added directly to food) and fortifying agents commonly used in non organic foods, including preservatives, artificial sweeteners, colorings and flavorings, and monosodium glutamate (MSG).

Environment. Some people buy organic food for environmental reasons. Organic farming practices are designed to benefit the environment by reducing pollution and conserving water and soil quality.

Taste. Some people say they can taste the difference between organic and non organic food. Others say they find no difference. Taste is a subjective and personal consideration, so decide for yourself.

Mayo Clinic. (2011). Organic foods: Are they safer? More Nutritious? Retrieved February 8, 2011, from    
       http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/organic-food/NU00255