Organics and your health

PearsA study presented to the Soil Association's annual conference in Newcastle in January 2005 showed that organic milk has higher levels of vitamin E, omega 3 essential fatty acids and antioxidants, which help beat infections, than non-organic milk.

On average, organic food contains higher levels of vitamin C and essential minerals such as calcium, magnesium, iron and chromium (Shane Heaton - Organic Farming, Food Quality and Human Health, 2001).

In a review of 41 studies from around the world, organic crops were shown to have statistically significant higher levels of vitamin C, magnesium, iron and phosphorous. Spinach, lettuce, cabbage and potatoes showed particularly high levels of minerals. (Virginia Worthington - Nutritional Quality of Organic Versus Conventional Fruits, Vegetables and Grains, 2001)

On average, organic food contains higher levels of vitamin C and essential minerals such as calcium, magnesium, iron and chromiumNitrate levels in organic food are on average 15% lower (Virginia Worthington - Nutritional Quality of Organic Versus Conventional Fruits, Vegetables and Grains, 2001). Scientists from Glasgow University have found a link between the levels of nitrates in vegetables and gullet cancer, which has trebled over the last 20 years and claims more than 3000 lives a year. They believe that an increase in the use of nitrate fertilisers since World War II may be one of the main reasons for the rise in this cancer.

Organic vegetables have higher levels (between 10% and 50%) of secondary nutrients. These include antioxidants which help to mop up harmful free radicals implicated in cancer. (Shane Heaton - Organic Farming, Food Quality and Human Health, 2001)

Deficiencies in certain vitamins and minerals can lead to a variety of symptoms including muscle cramps and depression. (Truth About Food)

Between 1940 and 1991, trace minerals in conventional UK fruit and vegetables fell by up to 76% – US figures show a similar trend. (Defra and USDA)

While it’s currently unclear how safe currently used pesticides are, studies have linked many of these substances with health disorders such premature births, behavioral disorders and cancers.

Additives banned in organic foods

The following additives are specifically banned in organic processed food:

  • Hydrogenated fat, which is linked to heart disease.
  • Phosphoric acid, used in cola drinks, which can lead to osteoporosis.
  • Aspartame, a common artificial sweetener, which has been linked to headaches, nausea, diarrhoea, convulsions and seizures.
  • Monosodium glutamate, thought to be responsible for dizziness, headaches and asthma attacks.
  • Sulphur dioxide which can cause problems in people who have asthma.