No Need To Be Afraid, Don't Be Petrified, But You Should Know That Organic Foods Still Use Pesticides: Part 1
On this week's episode, we take a little break from COVID-19 to talk about organics!
First, we refresh everyone’s memory from our GMO episodes, to clarify the difference between organic farming (a cultivation method) and GMO technology (a breeding method). We discuss what the organic label actually means and doesn't mean, and debunk the myth that organic products are pesticide-free. We talk about different examples of organic pesticides and how, at certain doses, they can actually be quite toxic (remember, the dose makes the poison)! We also discuss the differences between synthetic and organic pesticides, and some key factors to consider amongst the two. We briefly discuss the higher cost of organic products and whether it's justified. Finally, we spend some time discussing the evidence (or lack thereof) that organic foods have a higher nutritional value than their traditional counterparts, with a promise to continue this discussion on our next episode!
PLEASE NOTE: The discussion and information provided in this podcast are for general educational, scientific, and informational purposes only and are not intended as, and should not be treated as, medical or other professional advice for any particular individual or individuals. Every person and medical issue is different, and diagnosis and treatment requires consideration of specific facts often unique to the individual. As such, the information contained in this podcast should not be used as a substitute for consultation with and/or treatment by a doctor or other medical professional. If you are experiencing any medical issue or have any medical concern, you should consult with a doctor or other medical professional.
Further, due to the inherent limitations of a podcast such as this as well as ongoing scientific developments, we do not guarantee the completeness or accuracy of the information or analysis provided in this podcast, although, of course we always endeavor to provide comprehensive information and analysis. In no event may Unbiased Science or any of the participants in this podcast be held liable to the listener or anyone else for any decision allegedly made or action allegedly taken or not taken allegedly in reliance on the discussion or information in this podcast or for any damages allegedly resulting from such reliance.
RESOURCES
2011 Scientific American Article: Mythbusting 101: Organic Farming > Conventional Agriculture
2010 PLoS ONE Study Comparing Organic to Synthetic Pesticides
2009 Meta-Analysis, American Journal of Clinical Nutrition: Nutrition of Organic Products
2012 Stanford Study in Annals of Internal Medicine: Organic Foods Offer No Nutritional Benefit
Organic Product Market Growth
