What Are the Disadvantages of Organic Food?
Organic foods are on the rise with a growing consumer demand for healthier choices. Those who choose to buy organic items do so because they feel that the advantages outweigh the disadvantages. However, there are some disadvantages to buying organic food, which consumers should be aware of.
Organic farming is labor intensive and requires more effort than traditional methods. This can lead to lower yields. This can be a problem for farmers who are trying to produce enough organic food to meet the demand. As a result, the increased cost of buying organic food is passed on to consumers. This makes it difficult for people on a tight budget to afford the extra expense.
In addition, the reduced yield may mean that there are fewer nutritional items in each serving. This can be a problem for those who want to improve their diets and are trying to increase the number of fruits and vegetables that they consume on a regular basis. Conventional fruit and vegetable products are often treated with preservatives and waxes in order to extend their shelf life while they are being shipped across the country or around the world. These types of treatments are not used with organic products, so the foods will spoil more quickly than those that were treated.
The organic farming process also uses more natural resources such as water and soil. This means that organic crops can take longer to grow and the production is often more environmentally sensitive than traditional farming practices. This can be a concern for those who are concerned about the effect that conventional agriculture has on the environment.
Another concern with organic food is that it may be contaminated with pesticide residues. This can be a problem for those with certain health issues. Consuming pesticides regularly can contribute to a variety of problems including infertility issues, Parkinson’s disease, endocrine disorders and autoimmune diseases. It is believed that there are over 200 harmful chemicals found in cord blood from babies born to mothers who have consumed pesticides.
Many people who choose to purchase organic food do so because they believe that the farming process is more humane than conventional processes. However, this is not necessarily true. Organic farms are not required to treat their livestock any more humanely than conventional farms. In fact, some of the more humane practices that are used in organic farms may be illegal in some states.
If you are concerned about the welfare of animals, consider purchasing certified humane foods instead of organic options. These foods are often more expensive than their conventional counterparts, but they offer an assurance that the animal has been treated well. In addition, most local economies will reinvest the profits that are received from the purchase of these products back into the community, which can help to provide more jobs and a better living profile for everyone involved in the community.
