Many people are switching to organic food. Maybe you're wondering if you should, too. Is organic better?In some ways, yes. In others, no. These facts might help you decide. - Organic food is generally free of artificial fertilisers, synthetic herbicides and pesticides, genetically modified (GM) ingredients, growth regulators, antibiotics and hormone stimulants.
- Taste tests usually show no significant differences between organic and non-organic food. If they do taste different, it's not necessarily better.
- Organic food is generally more expensive.
- Some studies have found that organic vegetables are more nutritious than conventionally grown produce, though others have found no inherent differences.
- Organic farming is definitely better for the environment than conventional farming.
How do you buy organic? - You can buy organic food from some fruit and vegie shops, supermarkets and health food stores, via the Internet or from certified organic retailers.
- Always check the produce or packaging for 'certified organic' labels belonging to Australian Quarantine and Inspection Service (AQIS)-accredited certifying organisations.
- Look for the Organic Retailers' and Growers' Association of Australia (ORGAA) trademark in the shop window.
See the full CHOICE report. Go to choice.com.au for more expert, unbiased advice on appliances, electronics, food and finances. Buy smarter, go to choice.com.au first. This article was last reviewed October 2004
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