Organic food: Are you really better?

Organic food: Are you really better?

organic food is becoming increasingly popular. The palette ranges from organic fruit to organic vegetables to organic meat. The demand for these products has increased enormously in recent years. But are organic food really better? The answer to this question is not as easy as it seems at first glance. Many different aspects come into play, including ecological, health and economic intentions. In this article we will check these factors in detail and in more detail.

What are organic food?

Organic foods are products that are produced in accordance with the guidelines of ecological farming. These guidelines stipulate that chemical-synthetic fertilizers and pesticides are restricted or completely avoided. Genetically modified organisms are not allowed in organic farming and animal husbandry follows the principle of animal welfare.

European organic seal

In the European Union there is a organic seal that defines binding guidelines for the production and labeling of organic food. Food with this seal must consist of at least 95% of organic ingredients. Strict controls are carried out on all levels to ensure that the guidelines are observed.

ecological aspects

Organic foods have the reputation of being better for the environment. In many cases, this is also true. Conventional agricultural practices tend to exploit the natural resources and contribute to the pollution of the environment.

soil health

Avoiding chemical-synthetic fertilizers and pesticides in organic farming leads to a healthier soil. Organic farmers often practice crop rotation and use organic fertilizers to keep the floor fruitful.

biodiversity

Bio-land construction promotes biodiversity because it works with more natural systems. In organic fields, there are often more different types of plant, animal and insect than in conventional fields.

CO2 footprint

The CO2 footprint can also be lower for organic food. Due to the waiver of chemical fertilizers and pesticides, organic farmers need less energy in production. However, when looking at the entire product life cycle, including transport, the differences can be less clear.

Health aspects of organic food

It is often argued that organic food is healthier than conventional. In fact, there are some health benefits associated with organic food.

nutrient content

There are studies that suggest that organic food has a higher content of certain nutrients such as vitamins and antioxidants. However, it must be noted that the difference in the nutrient content between organic and conventionally grown foods is often low and depends on many factors, including the type of product and the specific growing conditions.

pesticide pollution

Organic food tends to have a lower load from pesticides. This is the case due to the reduced use of synthetic pesticides in organic farming. However, it is important to note that the pesticide burden of conventional foods is usually below the legal limit values ​​and is therefore considered safe.

taste

Although the taste is subjective, many people claim that organic foods taste better. In fact, cultivation methods and conditions can affect the taste of a food.

economic aspects

Organic foods are often more expensive than conventionally grown foods. This is due to the higher production costs of organic farming, which arise from the requirements in terms of animal-friendly attitude and the waiver of chemical fertilizers and pesticides.

cost efficiency

The higher price of organic food is often justified with the ecological and health advantages. In addition, many argue that the price of conventional food does not reflect the real costs, such as pollution and long -term health damage.

Local economy

The purchase of organic food can support the local economy, since organic farmers are often smaller, local companies. This is particularly important in times when agriculture is increasingly industrialized.

FAZIT

Are organic food really better? It depends on how to answer the question. From an ecological point of view, they are definitely better for the environment. From a health point of view, there are indications of advantages, but the differences are often low. From an economic point of view, organic foods are more expensive, but may support the local economy and rather reflect the real costs of food production.

Ultimately, the choice is in the hands of the consumer. It is important to consciously decide and find opportunities that support health and the environment. Organic food can be part of this decision, but are not the only solution. It is worth looking for sustainable and healthy alternatives.