Lately, there has been a lot of emphasis placed on organic, sustainable food. You probably know that organic food is supposed to be better and better for you, but you might not know what that means. In a chemistry sense, organic simply means something that contains carbon. Since pretty much all food contains carbon, you might be wondering what it means for food to be organic. In a culinary and agricultural sense, it has different meanings. If you are in a best food store in Philadelphia, PA, you might see food from around the world described as organic. What does that mean? Is it worth the price?
Overview
In the simplest sense, organic foods are those that are produced using organic farming techniques. These standards differ around the world. They are different in different locations, countries, and municipalities. These practices are generally similar in that they focus on conserving natural resources as well as the natural biodiversity of a region. They promote balance in the environment as well. The main commonality is that chemical fertilizers are not allowed, neither are synthetic pesticides.
Typically, organic foods are not irradiated to sanitize them. They typically do not use synthetic additives or preservatives or solvents. In many different countries, a special certification is required before food can be labeled as organic. So some of the food produced by small private individuals such as a backyard garden might be organic in practice but they are not certified to be sold that way.
Advantages
Organic food offered in a food store is certified by that location to be produced using sustainable methods. These methods are beneficial to the location as well as to the eater. One of the major advantages is that organic food tends to be local. Because they do not use artificial preservatives, these food items do not stay fresh for quite as long as other foods. Because of that, they have to be produced locally and shipped quickly. That way, you know when you are buying food, you are putting money back into your local economy. Also, you are giving money to local farmers and producers.
Also, when food is shipped from far away, you might be taking food away from the communities where it is grown.
Controversy
Organic food has faced some controversy as well, though. Researchers have studied many of the claims made by proponents of organic food. These researchers found that when customers tasted food bought from the same food store, they did not notice a marked difference between the standard food and the organic. There is virtually no taste difference. Also, there is not much evidence to support the idea that organic food is healthier. Most of the differences affect the supplier and not the consumer.
You probably know that organic food is supposed to be better and better for you, but you might not know what that means.
