Essay On Organic Vs Non Organic Food

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Alexander Sinnott - 09532765
The nutritional value of organic vs. non organic conventionally farmed foods. Is there a difference? Organic food refers to foods produced under strict organic farming principles which work in synchronisation with nature. (IOFGA, 2011) According to the European Commission, organic farming involves numerous farming practises such as restricting the use of chemical pesticides and fertilisers, prohibiting the use of genetically modified organisms, raising livestock on organic feed in free range, open air habitats and using crop rotation in an effort to maximise use of onsite resources. (European Commission, 2014) EU law ensures adherence to these processes, while similar laws are enforced in the U.S by the
USDA.
Conventionally
The economies of scale created by conventional production also results in cheaper prices overall. (FAO, 2014)
The prevalence of organic food consumption in mainstream society has increased dramatically in the last twenty years. (Eurostat, 2007) In America, organic food is the fastest growing industry in the American food market. (Haumann, 2012) Similarly in the
UK, 86% of households consume organic foods regularly with both dairy (30.5%) and fruit and vegetables proving to be the most popular. (Soil Association, 2011). In Ireland,
Bord Bia has estimated the organic food market to be worth €100 million in 2014. (Bord
Bia, 2014)
There is a widespread perception by consumers that organically produced food contains more nutrients than conventionally produced food, and as a result is healthier. (Hoefkens et al., 2009) In a poll by the Soil Association UK, 55% chose organic food for health reasons. It has also been noted that people tend to view organic food as a low calorie or health food. (Blair, 2012) Other reasons cited for buying organic food are to avoid harmful, contaminating chemicals, caring for the environment, animal welfare and

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