Pesticides / herbicides
4/20/2009 2:11:22 PM EST
Why is so-called organic produce more nutritious? Stress
Partner, Ropers Majeski Kohn & Bentley
Why is organically farmed produce [fruits, vegetables] more nutritious that conventionally farmed produce? A recent study indicates that antioxidant vitamins, flavonoids, and other beneficial (for humans) trace nutrients are actually produced to help plants defend themselves from pests and the botanical equivalent of sunburn. The report notes that the varying capacity of plants to create these compounds may explain why certain varieties of nectarines, tomatoes, and spinach, for example, offer a more diverse and substantive source of micronutrients. The researchers suggest that conventionally farmed produce, by having the benefits of concentrated fertilizers and pesticides, may not have to expend as much energy on "defenses", and thus produce fewer such nutrients.
Create an account or login to post comments.