As the world has progressed in terms of technology and methods, the agricultural industry has seen a massive increase in its production capabilities. The development of specialized breeds resistant to certain conditions for targeted areas has also allowed it to expand in regions where crop and livestock cultivation were previously not sustainable.
Food output has risen in terms of size and amount, making the goal of feeding the world’s constantly growing population more realistic even if that point has not yet been reached. However, these advancements came about through means such as chemical treatments, genetic engineering, herbicides, pesticides and other additions that are not always considered healthy for human beings.
Americans have become more concerned with healthy eating in the modern world, meaning many are turning to organic produce, the result of natural methods, in spite of its usually higher price tag. There are organic farmers, organic markets and even organic meal plans. Is it worth it, though? Read on to learn about some of the benefits associated with consuming organic food and decide for yourself.
1. Free of Antibiotics
To protect their investment, farmers often give their animals antibiotics. The problem with this is that it can promote the creation of drug-resistant bacteria strains.
When humans eat meat containing this medicine, it may also lead to them developing resistance to it, meaning if they find themselves ill in the future some treatments may not work effectively. Organic farmers do not use antibiotics.
2. Lower Heavy Metal and Pesticide Content
Artificial pesticides and fertilizers containing heavy metals also pose a risk to those who use nonorganic meat. These can be harmful to individuals, but organic producers avoid them, preferring natural fertilizers like manure and taking care of pests through other methods.
3. Higher Antioxidant Content in Certain Cases
Some organic products have been shown to have more antioxidants, essential substances that protect cells. Research on this is not completely conclusive, and the higher presence of these molecules does not necessarily correlate to overall greater nutrition.
Nutrients like omega-3 fatty acids have also been found in larger amounts in organic meat and milk than in their non-organically produced counterparts.
4. Less Strain on the Environment
Organic farming is better for the environment in general. The lack of synthetic fertilizers and chemicals makes areas safer for local wildlife like birds. There is also a correlation between such practices and decreased soil erosion, general soil health, reduced pollution and conservation of energy and water resources.
Organic food is considered a healthy choice by many. It certainly has many advantages, though whether it can actually be claimed to be better in terms of health than food produced with more modern methods like genetic engineering and artificial fertilizers is still up in the air, with much research pointing at both being good for human consumption. At the very least, it has as many nutrients as nonorganic foods and also comes with fewer toxic materials people wish to avoid ingesting such as pesticides and chemicals. It also happens to be fresher and contains fewer unhealthy preservatives.
