With our nutrition expert, Brennan J. Robertson Ask Brennan J. Robertson a question about nutrition Question Archive What is organic produce and is it more nutritious than conventional produce? Brennan J. Robertson's Response

Conventional produce uses synthetic (manmade) fertilizers and pesticides, while organic fruits and vegetables are farmed using renewable natural resources, which help to conserve soil and water. As such, organic produce are not 100% pesticide-free, as naturally-occurring pesticides are often present in fruits and vegetables. Also, organic crops may be fertilized with all-natural nutrients, such as animal manure and plant debris.

Prior to 2006, Canada's organic food standards were voluntary and regulated by the organic industry. Since December 2006, the industry has been federally regulated by the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA), and the new Canada Organic logo was introduced in 2007. As of December 2008, all organic produce must be in compliance with strict regulation in order to be certified as organic and be distinguishable by the new logo.

At this point, it is debatable whether or not organic produce is more nutritious than conventional produce. It is difficult to compare crops grown under different conditions, and unfortunately there exist conflicting studies.

Some early studies showed no difference in the nutritional value of organic and conventional produce. A meta-analysis from 2002 showed that, with the possible exception of nitrate content, there is no strong evidence that organic and conventional foods differ in concentrations of various nutrients. In contrast, a review from April 2001 showed that organic produce contains higher levels of vitamin C, iron, magnesium, and phosphorous. Additionally, a new report published in March 2008 by The Organic Center claims that organic food is on average 25% more nutritious than conventional food.

Regardless of which type is more nutritious, the evidence linking fruits and vegetables to good health is overwhelming, and I encourage you to obtain the 7 to 10 daily servings recommended by Health Canada.

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Nutrition Question Archives

A friend told me that a vitamin D supplement will help in avoiding the winter blues. Is this true? Are bananas fattening? Are pineapples high in calories? Are there any foods I should be eating more of to ward off the common cold? Can you explain to me the difference between "good" carbs and "bad" carbs? Do fruits and vegetables have protein? Hello Brennan! I have type 2 diabetes, and I'm wondering if all the hype about vitamin supplementation is in fact beneficial for my condition? How beneficial is the Eat Right 4 Your Type diet? I am a student on a low budget. How can I eat healthy? I currently take a water pill daily and I am concerned about the amount of potassium my body is losing as a result of taking this pill. What fruits and vegetables with high levels of potassium should I be eating more of to offset this loss? I have been considering the benefits of a dietary detox. What can you tell me about body cleanses? I have known about the benefits of drinking gogi juice but just recently heard of the açai berry. What is it and how would it benefit my health? I want to start taking an omega-3 supplement as I don't like fish. You had recommended one with a high EPA. How high should I go, and can you recommend a brand? I'm new to supplements! Is honey a good substitute for sugar for a person with diabetes? My daughter has colitis and has been advised to follow a low-fibre diet. Which foods should she eat and which should she avoid? My New Year's resolution is to take better care of my body. Is there anything you can suggest to kick start a year of healthy living? My sister has liver disease. Is there a certain diet she should follow? My son has been drinking a juice that claims to be loaded with adaptogens. What are adaptogens and are they safe to take? What are good dietary sources of Vitamin D? What are probiotics and should I be taking them regularly? What exercises will help me build upper arms after losing 20 pounds over one year? I golf and bike from April to November, then walk every day during the inclement weather. What foods are good for someone with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and which foods should be avoided?

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