Organic vs. Non-GMO: Is Organic Really Better? A Health, Environmental, Price, and Taste Comparison

What's the difference between organic and non-organic? Is organic better than non-organic? Analyze the differences in health, environmental impact, price, taste, and yield between the two, based on scientific principles and statistics. Learn what your choices mean at the table.

Health - organic vs. inorganic

Organic foods are grown with minimal use of synthetic fertilizers or pesticides and rely on natural cycles. Because of this, organic products typically have fewer pesticide residues. A 2012 study found that organic food consumers had a reduced risk of skin diseases and allergies compared to a non-organic randomized control group. 

However, other studies have found no significant differences in nutritional content between organic and conventional foods. A meta-analysis published in 2012 in the Annals of Internal Medicine analyzed more than 200 studies and reported no significant differences for common nutrients (such as protein and fat). 

Environmental impact - is it sustainable?

In terms of environmental impact, organic farming is considered one of the important solutions for a sustainable future. It reduces the use of synthetic fertilizers and pesticides, reducing soil and water pollution and protecting ecosystem diversity. 

While synthetic fertilizers provide essential nutrients like nitrogen, phosphoric acid, and potassium directly to plants, organic farming uses compost or green manure to maintain soil health and provide nutrients to plants in a natural way. By doing so, organic farming reduces the burden on the environment and keeps farms productive in the long run. 

One thing to consider, however, is productivity. Generally speaking, the yield from the same amount of land under organic farming is lower overall. This means that there is less production per unit area, which means that more farmland is needed to meet the amount of food we need.  

Price - is it worth paying more?

Organic products are generally more expensive than their non-organic counterparts. This is because organic farming is more labor-intensive and produces lower yields, and it also includes the cost of the certification process and administration. 
However, many consumers choose organic products despite the price because they recognize their value as a long-term investment in their health and the environment. In fact, according to the 2019 Nielsen Global Health and Ingredient Sentiment Survey, 41% of consumers worldwide value health and sustainability, and they don't hesitate to pay extra for them. 

 

Taste - is there a difference?

When it comes to taste, there is a lot of subjective judgment involved. Some studies have reported that certain organic foods (e.g., fruits and vegetables) taste better than non-organic foods, but this depends on personal preference and context.

According to a meta-analysis study published in the British Journal of Nutrition in 2014, organic fruits and vegetables contain, on average, about 12% more beneficial compounds than non-organic products. Some of these compounds affect the taste and aroma of the food. 

Yield - what's more efficient?

In terms of productivity, inorganic farming in the same area generally yields more than organic farming. A 2012 study published in the journal "Nature" found that overall, organic farming yields were about 25% lower. 

However, it's also true that this difference varies by crop type and local conditions, and that it can be reduced by improving organic farming practices. For example, methods such as rotational cropping systems and the selection of naturally adapted varieties are gradually closing the productivity gap. 

Summarizing

The choice between organic and conventional farming reflects your values and priorities. It's a complex decision that weighs the pros and cons of each, considering factors such as health, environment, price, taste, and yield. It depends on your personal needs and preferences, and what you value for a sustainable future.