Are you concerned about what you put into your body and what goes into the environment? Rightfully so. Some chemicals that you breathe in and swallow from food and water can damage cells and tissues and lead to health problems, like cancer. Unfortunately, it’s almost impossible to avoid exposure to toxins from the environment. One way some health-conscious people reduce contact with chemicals is to buy organic produce. In fact, the demand for organic produce is rapidly outstripping the supply. The perception is that organically grown produce is free of pesticides – but is this really the case?
Pesticides and Organic Produce
The reality is that organic farmers use pesticides too. In many ways, this isn’t surprising since it’s almost impossible to grow crops without a way to control bugs and pests. Most states allow farmers to use a list of approved chemicals on organic crops to protect the crops against destruction by bugs. The requirement is these pesticides must be naturally sourced rather than synthesized in a lab. Yet, the FDA still allows the use of a certain number of synthetic chemicals in organic farming as well, provided they don’t contaminate the produce, soil, or water. Examples are disinfectants used to maintain the fields.
But is natural always better? When you hear the word “natural,” you probably assume it’s safer. However, there are many natural substances that are harmful to humans and animals and can, in high doses, be fatal. For example, inorganic arsenic is naturally present in the earth’s crust and sometimes makes its way into drinking water. When the water is sprayed on crops, the crops, too, are contaminated with arsenic. Why is this a problem? Arsenic in its inorganic form is a known carcinogen. However, arsenic isn’t the only harmful, natural compound in the environment. There are numerous examples of natural substances that are harmful to animals and humans. This should dispel the idea that because something is natural, it’s safe.
For years, no one really bothered to study the natural compounds used in organic farming. Only recently have natural pesticides been more carefully scrutinized. Now, according to the Genetic Literacy Project, up to half of the allowed natural pesticides are carcinogenic. Natural pesticides are also potentially toxic to the environment. For example, one pesticide once used in organic farming, rotenone, is toxic to fish. Other allowed pesticides, including pyrethrins, fungal pesticides, spinosad, and copper sulfate are toxic to bees. Plus, if they’re safe, why does the packaging on pesticides used in organic farming still carry warning labels?
Fortunately, use of rotenone, derived from plants, is banned after research showed it caused Parkinson’s disease in rats and is toxic to the mitochondria, the energy producers within every cell of the human body. Yet, this natural pesticide was used for years in organic farming and is still used by fisheries. It’s another example of a natural substance derived from plants that are harmful to humans.
Some natural pesticides organic farmers use ARE seemingly safe – for example, dairy cultures and mulch – but others, like sulfur, borax, copper sulfate, and lime sulfur can cause side effects in humans. What’s more, organic farmers have to use much higher quantities of natural pesticides to get the same protection as a synthetic pesticide offer. When farmers use more, these compounds stay in the environment longer. What’s more, the government doesn’t monitor or regulate how MUCH of these pesticides organic farmers use. Then, there are loopholes in the organic system. For example, organic farmers can use certain synthetic chemicals if they don’t have an effective alternative.
Are Organic Farmers Skirting the Rules?
Another concern is that organic farmers might use prohibited pesticides on crops, despite the organic regulations. Recently, Consumer Reports put organic farming to the test. They purchased produce from five cities in different areas of the country and had them independently tested for synthetic pesticides. One out of four of the organically-labeled produce had traces of synthetic pesticides.
According to the USDA website, organic farms are inspected yearly. They inspect the farm, storage areas, prep areas, and documentation of farming practices. They also take samples to check for synthetic pesticide residues. With more than 30,000 inspections carried out each year, violations are likely missed.
Then, there’s imported organic produce. Check out the organic section of your local grocery store and you’ll find a wide array of organic berries are from other countries. So, when you buy organic from overseas, it may have traveled a long distance and lost a significant amount of nutrients. Plus, organic standards are different in other countries.
Is There a Better Alternative?
No doubt, it’s important to reduce exposure to pesticides as much as possible, but some natural pesticides may be harmful to your health as well. Plus, if farmers use more of these chemicals, the impact on health is magnified. A better alternative may be to find a local farmer in your area and buy directly from them. Find out as much as you can about their farming practices. Many small farmers try to limit the use of pesticides as their family eats what they produce as well. Some local farms already practice organic farming and haven’t applied for certification due to the expense. Plus, when you buy locally, your food doesn’t travel as far to reach you. That means less nutrient loss. It’s also good to support local farmers and have a connection to the food you’re eating.
The Bottom Line
Don’t assume a piece of organic produce is free of chemicals. It may contain natural ones and, sometimes, even synthetic ones, as evidenced by Consumer Report testing. Be sure to wash it thoroughly and consider buying your produce from local farmers. A local farmer’s market is a good way to connect with farmers in your local area.
References:
Genetic Literacy Project. “Myth Busting on Pesticides: Despite Demonization, Organic Farmers Widely Use Them
World Health Organization. “Arseni
U.S. Department of Agriculture. “USDA Organi
Berkeley.edu. “About Organic Produce
United States Department of Agriculture. “The National Lis
Scientific American. “Mythbusting 101: Organic Farming > Conventional Agriculture
United States Department of Agriculture. “Organic 101: Ensuring Organic Integrity through Inspections”
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Is Organic Fruit More Nutritious?
Does Peeling Fruits and Vegetables Eliminate Most of the Pesticides?
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