The news just keeps getting better about the nutritional value of organic whole foods, on the heels of last week's post about organic kiwifruit. Three new studies funded by the European Union confirm the higher nutritional quality of whole organic foods.
In fact, one British researcher estimated a patient eating 400 grams of fruits and vegetables daily would receive as much as 20 percent more nutrients in organic foods. The range of benefits -- more flavonoids, polyphenols and natural vitamins with no pesticides -- were found in tomatoes, apple puree and peaches.
Still, the Food Standards Agency in the UK refused to officially endorse the health benefits of eating organic foods last fall, saying they were of less nutritional value than long-chain fatty acids, according to The Independent. That rationale certainly won't hold up after a recent report from the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs found organic foods had a lesser ecological impact than those grown conventionally and exposed to pesticides and chemical fertilizers.
If you've been having trouble finding organic whole foods at your grocery store, I urge you to read this article I posted last year that lists locations in your area where you can obtain inexpensive fruits and vegetables from local growers.
The Independent April 3, 2007Soil Association March 29, 2007