Although the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), which regulates organic foods, does not claim organically produced food is safer or more nutritious than traditionally produced foods, using organic foods may be a healthier choice because neither hormones, drugs or non-synthetic pesticides and fertilizers are used to stimulate growth.

Some consumer benefits of organic farming include: 

• Certain plants cultivated in an organic system contain higher levels of antioxidants.
• Children who consume organic diets have reduced exposure to organophosphorus pesticides, as measured by urine concentration in crossover diet studies.
• Research demonstrates improved flavor in organic versus conventionally produced strawberries, and improved taste in organic versus conventionally produced apple.

Before making changes to an organic diet, please consult your dietitian.

This article originally appeared in the July 2008 issue of AAKP Diet Tips & Bits.