Planet organic

Sales of organic food are booming worldwide and stars such as Michelle Obama, Elle Macpherson and Madonna are all fans. However, what does organic mean and is there any nutritional benefit? We delve in to the ever-evolving world of organic and reveal what produce you should buy organic when you're next grocery shopping.

What makes it organic?

Organic food is free from genetically-modified organisms and most additives, cutting the amount of chemicals on your plate and the harm to nature. Meanwhile meat, milk and eggs must be produced in farming systems where animals can roam freely in open air and are given organic feed themselves.

What foods should I buy organic?

Organic produce might not look quite as pretty, uniform or blemish-free as its non-organic counterparts, but fans of organic produce say it tastes better – and that includes top chef Jamie Oliver. Plus, ongoing research shows that there could be nutritional benefits to certain organic produce, as we reveal:

• Milk. In a recent European Union funded project, researchers reared cattle on adjacent organic and non-organic sites. Analysis showed that the levels of antioxidants in the milk from organic herds were up to 90% higher compared with the conventional herd. Other UK and US studies have shown organic milk to be higher in omega-3 essential fatty acids, antioxidants and vitamin E.
• Eggs. Chairman of the Centre for Organic and Resource Enterprises (CORE) Eric Love says, "Battery hens are fed with many hormones, which could be passed down the food chain and affect the eggs they produce." Hens that produce organic eggs are free range and are fed only organic feed to ensure no hormones or chemicals find their way into your scrambled eggs.
• Bread. Organic bread is made with organic grain and produced without any use of chemicals. Although research into the nutritional benefit of organic bread is still underway Eric Love says, "It is suggested that there are nutritional benefits to organic bread as the grain is of a higher quality and has more protein."
• Strawberries. Research has found that organic strawberries are a good choice. According to the Australian Consumers Associations, CHOICE, conventionally grown strawberries were found to contain the highest levels of chemical residues; at least one residue on two thirds of strawberry samples. Some studies also suggest organic strawberries may have more antioxidants and one study found them to be redder and sweeter.
• Apples. The findings of a recent survey looking into the nutritional content of organic food were announced at the annual American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS). One finding was that, "organic apple production systems can lead to measurable improvements in fruit nutritional quality, taste and storability." A study published in the Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry also stated that organic apples boast an average of 12% higher antioxidant levels than conventionally produced apples.
• Tomatoes. The survey findings announced at AAAS also claimed that, "organically farmed tomatoes have significantly higher levels of soluble solids and natural plant molecules called secondary plant metabolites, including flavonoids, lycopene and vitamin C." Most secondary plant metabolites are antioxidants, found to aid human health.
• Spinach. In a study of 27 cultivators of organic spinach, it was found to contain higher levels of flavonoids and vitamin C and lower levels of nitrates, which are thought to be detrimental to human health. As most salad leaves absorb a lot of water, it may be advised to opt for organic with most leafy food choices.

How do I know if it’s organic?

If you want to buy organic, look for a ‘certified organic’ label. Don’t be fooled by packaging that claims the produce is ‘natural’ or ‘chemical free’. Campaigners would like to see one Australian organic label, but until then look for the following:

• The National Association of Sustainable Agriculture Australia (NASAA)
• The Biological Farmers of Australia (BFA)
• The Biodynamic Research Institute (Demeter)
• Organic Vignerons Association of Australia (OVAA)
• Organic Food Chain (OFC)
• The Organic Herb Growers of Australia (OHGA)
• Tasmanian Organic Producers (TOP).

Can I buy organic on a budget?

Organic produce can be slightly dearer because it takes longer to produce and organic farming tends to be more labour-intensive with generally lower yields. So, what can you do if you want to benefit from organic without seeing food bills soar?  

• Buy seasonal organic fruits and veg.
• Try growing your own. Just a few simple vegies and herbs will give you some fine organic food for your table.
• Produce from your local organic farm shop will have clocked up less air miles so should be cheaper.
• Visit your local farmer’s market, but remember that not all the food at the market is going to be organic so do check!
• Try a box scheme. Some local companies deliver fresh, seasonal produce to your home. Take a look at www.organicfood.com.au or www.organicfooddirectory.com.au.