Understanding Organic

Foods
Organic foods are becoming more popular. Have you wondered what
the difference is between organic and non-organic foods? People
choose organic foods for different reasons. Read on to learn all about
organic foods.

What’s the difference between organic and non-organic foods? 

The difference between organic and non-organic (conventional) food

has to do with how food is produced. For example, organic foods like
vegetables, fruit, eggs, milk and meat are produced without:

 Synthetic (human-made) pesticides, herbicides and fertilizers. Organic

farmers may use natural pesticides approved for organic food
production.
 Genetically modified organisms (GMOs)
 Antibiotics or growth hormones
 Irradiation or ionizing radiation (a way to preserve food with radiation
energy) 
 Non-organic farmers may use some organic farm practices as well.

Are organic foods safer to eat because they have less pesticide residue?
According to Health Canada, there is no evidence to show that it is safer
to eat organic foods over conventionally grown foods because of
pesticide residue. Natural or plant-based pesticides may still be used in
organic food production.  
How are organic foods regulated?

Organic foods are regulated by the federal government under the

Organic Products Regulations and must meet the Canadian Organic

Standards (COS). 
Organic foods that meet these standards can use the Canada Organic
Logo on their packaging. Using this logo is voluntary. Products must
have 95% or more organic content to use this logo. 
Are organic foods more nutritious?
There is not enough evidence to say that organic foods are more or less
nutritious than non-organic foods. Foods like vegetables, fruit, whole
grains, legumes, eggs, lean meats, and dairy products, are all nutritious
whether they are organically grown or not.

Do organic foods taste better?

Some people may find that organic food tastes better because it may be
fresher if it’s locally produced.
Is organic food more expensive?

In general, organic food may cost more money than non-organic food.
This is because organic farming usually requires more labour and tends
to have lower yields when compared to conventional farming. 

How can a dietitian help? 

Dietitians can help you make sense of food labels and teach you what to
look for when making nutritious food choices. Dietitians understand the
science of nutrition and will consider your unique needs based on your
health, goals, culture and food traditions. Connect with a dietitian today!