Can You Justify the Cost of Organic Produce?

Maybe, maybe not. Buying organic produce selectively makes perfect sense to some people. Take the banana, for instance, which has a peel that is thick and is thrown away. It absorbs fewer pesticides than thin-skinned fruit, like the strawberry, which is a veritable sponge for pesticides.

Laboratory tests performed by the United States Department of Agriculture have proven that certain fruits and vegetables contain higher levels of pesticides, even after being washed.

Vegetables and fruits that retain the highest levels of pesticides are among the following: apples, bell peppers, celery, cherries, imported grapes, nectarines, peaches, pears, potatoes, red raspberries, spinach, and strawberries. For these items, it would be very beneficial to go to the extra expense of buying organic. The ones with the lowest concentration are: asparagus, avocado, banana, broccoli, cauliflower, sweet corn, kiwi, mango, onion, papaya, pineapple, and sweet peas.

Whenever you buy organic produce, you're supporting a reduction in the use of pesticides and herbicides, as well as any other chemicals that can be released into the environment, particularly the ground water. But that may not always be sufficient cause for a family to spend the extra money in these difficult economic times. Some people believe organic foods to be healthier, and this is their justification for the extra expense of buying organic.

People can be overwhelmed by the data on the harmful effects of different chemicals, particularly because it will often contradicts itself. We know that over time, some potentially carcinogenic pesticides and chemicals accumulate in our bodies as we ingest them, but practically no studies exist that examine the long term consequences of this. Be that as it may, in 1996 a new federal law was passed, making it a requirement for pesticides to adhere to safety standards for children. Since that time, more than twelve pesticides that had been in broad use have been banned, restricted, or withdrawn voluntarily by the manufacturers.

The developing immune, central-nervous, and hormonal systems of children are particularly susceptible to damage from chemical toxins. Although the scientific community previously believed otherwise, a 2005 study found that if a woman has pesticides in her bloodstream they can be passed to a fetus in utero. When the umbilical-cord blood of fetuses was tested for pollutants by the Red Cross, 21 pesticides were discovered. It seems to be a good idea for children and pregnant women to eat organic, thereby controlling their chemical intake.

Right now in America, there are continuous drawn out fights over banning additional pesticides that are known to be harmful and that have been banned by the European Union. But there are several other countries, like Mexico, that are far worse. Chemicals banned in America, and water from the sewage, are frequently used to irrigate and treat crops in Mexico. It would be wise to buy locally-grown fruits and vegetables when purchasing produce that is non-organic. For both conventional and organic products, locally grown produce will be fresher and better tasting. Going to a farmer's market to shop for vegetables is a terrific means of supporting your local produce farmers and saving big bucks on organic produce. In-season produce, which is fresher and more flavorful, is the only kind sold at farmers markets.

Aside from their reduced amount of exposure to chemicals, it has recently been discovered that organic produce is higher in nutrients and antioxidants. In the largest study of its kind in the European Union, organically grown produce was shown to be 40% higher in antioxidants than regular produce -- another clear benefit to buying organic produce. Scientists think this may be due to the fact that plants grown organically experience more stress and, lacking the chemicals that help to reduce this stress, they produce antioxidants as a means of defense.

The decision of whether or not to buy organic produce, or how much to buy, is entirely up to the individual. Evidence indicates that the switch to organic produce would be especially beneficial for children and for pregnant women. Another reason for buying organic is to support local farmer's markets. You should seek the organic alternatives for the types of produce that are the most easily contaminated and retain the most pesticides even after washing. Finally, it can be a good idea when you do purchase conventional produce, to avoid things from third world countries that have lax regulations regarding the use of pesticides and chemicals.

About the Author
Ethan Mantle is an accomplished chef who uses organic produce and fresh, seasonal ingredients both at home with his family and at work. He currently owns Componere Fine Catering, a gourmet San Francisco catering business for those looking for spectacular Napa wedding caterers or San Francisco corporate caterers.