The more we get older and have more agency over our choices and ourselves, the more we want to ensure we are the best versions of ourselves. Whether that means choosing a sleep schedule that best fits our needs, going to the gym and getting regular exercise, or choosing the sort of diet we follow. We are told that we are what we eat, and so naturally, we want to make sure that what we eat is clean and free of toxins or harmful additives. 

Fruits and vegetables are the key to a balanced diet. They hold a great deal of fiber, nutrients, vitamins- such as vitamin A and C- and minerals. They help lower the risks of disease, such as some cancers, stroke, or heart issues. They are beneficial for boosting your immune system, promoting healthy digestion, and helping manage weight and appetite. They decrease inflammation and establish a healthy gut. 

So, it’s evident that fruits and vegetables are necessary to lead a healthy life. But when it comes to the specificities of the decisions, is organic produce really better? 

Choosing between organic and inorganic fruits and vegetables might not seem like a serious decision. We often look at the prices of whatever we are putting in our basket, and inorganic produce is admittedly less expensive. But while you’re saving dollars in your wallet, you might be paying with your health. 

One of the most frustrating aspects of food shopping is that everything goes bad too fast. The berries you just put in your fridge are already mushy by day two. The avocado in your basket has already browned overnight, and you’ll be lucky if you can salvage a banana from this morning. But, and perhaps unfortunately, these events are good. They are signs that the fruit you have purchased is free of the chemicals and nasty preservatives that are added to some produce to make it last longer; inorganic produce, that is. Nothing is introduced to mess with or change the natural decaying process. 

To Organic or Not to Organic, That is The Question. 

Organic produce is fruits or vegetables that are grown without the inclusion of chemical pesticides, petroleum-based fertilizers, sewage fertilizers, or any genetically modified organisms (GMOs). Federal agencies, such as the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), monitor the soil, among other things, that interacts with the produce as it grows to ensure that the standards are met to be able to declare the growth organic. Details like the soil health, what natural pesticides are used, if any, and the history of the farm itself all play a role, as the USDA states that no forbidden substances are to be introduced to the soil for at least three years before harvest. 

Harvesting organic produce is more than just chemicals and toxins. It goes back to the history of the farm itself and those who run it. To be classified as an organic harvest, farmers need to pay attention to the health of the soil and adopt specific habits on their land. Regular crop rotation, certain composting routines, and natural pest control are some of the key details to maintaining an organic-friendly farm. 

Organic food is kept separate from non-organic produce, and packaged and transported independently so as not to risk any contamination. While organic produce is grown without the inclusion of chemicals, additives, and preservatives, that does not necessarily mean they do not have any pesticides. The main difference between organic and inorganic is the chemical aspect, and many farmers must resort to using natural pesticides, which are free from any chemicals and have little to no residue on the produce. The lack of artificial fertilizer increases the quality of the fruit and vegetables, ensuring that when we choose to consume organic, we are purchasing foods that won’t put toxins in our bodies. Organic food in general decreases the chances of consuming synthetic residue left on produce, and has much fewer heavy and toxic metals in them.  

Our Body is A Temple; So is The Earth

The benefits of choosing organic don’t just stop with our bodies, but include the ground as well. Growing organic boosts the health of the soil, as there are no chemicals or harsh preservatives being sprayed. It also significantly helps the water quality in the surrounding areas, as there is no chemical run-off. Insects and bugs also stay flourishing in good condition; fruit is their food, and eating poison in your food would no doubt make you sick. 

Because of the constant composting necessary for organic growth, the soil on the farm begins to experience thriving biodiversity, which only makes the produce healthier and better. 

Organic farming also has the potential to help reduce pollution. Due to the lack of petroleum-based fertilizer, organic farming uses less energy and decreases carbon emissions. Lack of carbon emissions leads to a lower carbon footprint, which aids in lowering pollution. As well, the increased practice of composting benefits lower pollution rates and benefits the environment around the land. Greenhouse gases are also significantly lower, as the presence of chemical fertilizers is nonexistent. 

Is organic produce really better in terms of nutritional value? The nutritional difference between organic and inorganic produce is minimal; a strawberry is still a strawberry. Pesticides and preservatives sprayed onto food can’t alter the amount of vitamins or minerals.

The question isn’t about which has the most fruit-like benefits. It comes down to what we put into our bodies. Organic fruits won’t have chemicals that can harmfully impact your body and hormones. They won’t have genetically modified agents or introduce dangerous systems to the climate and the land. 

Ultimately, the impact isn’t detrimental and won’t cause severe damage to our health. But in a time and a world where it seems that everything has the potential to cause illness or diseases, it’s worth taking the time to investigate a little more about what we’re eating. We might not have control over much, but we have control over that. 

Do you have a preference between organic and inorganic produce? Let us know in the comments below!