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A British study that found organic food is no different when compared with conventionally produced food made news headlines across North America on Wednesday, July 29.
The independent review, commissioned by the Food Standards Agency (FSA) in the United Kingdom, seemed to be a slap in the face of supporters of organic agriculture around the world. The FSA, www.food.gov.uk, is an independent government department mandated to protect the public's health and consumer interests in relation to food.
Our national newspapers reported the results of this study which took the form of a 'systematic review of literature' and was carried out by the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine (LSHTM).
The CHFA was quick to respond with letters to the editor to The Globe and Mail and the National Post.
Our letter was published in Friday's Globe and Mail on page A12. You can also read an online version at www.theglobeandmail.com/news/opinions/letters-to-the-editor/organic-objective/article1237228/ if you are a GlobePlus subscriber.
Here is the CHFA letter:
Re: Organic food isn't any more nutritious (July 29, 2009)
Comparing the nutritional content of food produced using organic or conventional practices is to miss the point of the organic movement.
While the debate largely focuses on which is more nutritious, we need to look at the overall impact of how we grow our food to really appreciate which is healthier in the end.
Growing food using chemical fertilizers and pesticides does more than leave chemical residues on our produce. We need to consider the environmental and social impacts. An organic system of agriculture uses less energy, produces less waste and chemical run-off, and sustains diverse ecosystems.
Examining one aspect of this multi-faceted issue does little to move us forward in growing the best food possible for as many people as possible and in the best way possible.
If you're interested in reading the stories in the national papers, here are some links:
The Globe and Mail: www.theglobeandmail.com/life/health/organic-food-isnt-any-more-nutritious/article1235508/
National Post: http://www.nationalpost.com/related/links/story.html?id=1842708
In addition, you may also find a summary article on the FSA website interesting:
www.food.gov.uk/news/newsarchive/2009/jul/organic |
