- When organic food travels long distances to market (food miles), it creates pollution that may offset any positive environmental effects of organic farming.
- While there may not be a significant difference nutritionally between organic and conventional foods, detectable pesticide residues were found in only 7% of organic product samples compared to 38% of conventional produce samples.
- Pesticides may be used on organic food as long as they are not synthetic
- Advantages of organic meat include reduced exposure to antibiotic-resistant bacteria
- Eggs labeled as organic must come from organically reared chickens. To be an organically reared chicken, the bird has to eat 80% organic food for 6 weeks prior to laying its egg. Organic eggs and chickens should not be confused with free-range chickens, which can roam freely and eat whatever they like.
Secret: Research notes that people may buy organic food based on psychological effects, such as the “halo effect.” In other words, the label “organic” can change perceptions of taste, calories, and value regardless of whether the food is organic or not.