According to a recent Reuters’ news story, a European meta-study (a study of studies) of organic food indicated that organic foods are not any healthier that non organic foods. The conclusion comes as no big surprise as the US had conducted a similar meta-study a few years ago and came to the same conclusion. While some organic foods did have slightly higher levels of vitamins, the scientists determined that the amounts were negligible and provided no added benefit to the consumer. Neither of these meta-studies has investigated the safety of organic foods, however. While not immune from the foodborne illnesses that have plagued our food supply for decades, organic foods might have a better track record of safety. I would like to see an in depth survey on organic food safety before anyone dismisses the organic label.
Richard J. Arsenault, 2010
