Fruits and Veggies You Should Buy Organic

Fruits and Veggies You Should Buy Organic

Choosing whether to buy organic or conventionally grown fruits and vegetables depends on various factors, including personal preferences, budget, and health concerns. Organic produce is grown without synthetic pesticides, herbicides, and fertilizers, and it often involves more environmentally sustainable farming practices. However, it's essential to note that both organic and conventionally grown produce can be part of a healthy diet.

Certain fruits and vegetables are more likely to have higher pesticide residues, making them good candidates for choosing organic options when possible. These include:

1. Strawberries: Strawberries often have high pesticide residues, making them a good choice for organic purchase.

2. Apples: Apples are frequently treated with pesticides, and the thin skin may not provide as much protection from residues.

3. Grapes: Grapes, especially imported ones, can have high pesticide levels. Choose organic grapes or opt for domestically grown varieties.

4. Peaches: The soft skin of peaches allows pesticides to penetrate, so choosing organic may be beneficial.

5. Nectarines: Similar to peaches, nectarines have a thin skin, making it easier for pesticides to reach the flesh.

6. Cherries: Cherries, particularly non-organic ones, may have pesticide residues.

7. Spinach: Leafy greens like spinach can harbor pesticide residues, and choosing organic may reduce exposure.

8. Kale: Kale is another leafy green that can be a good choice for organic purchase.

9. Bell Peppers: Bell peppers may be treated with pesticides, so choosing organic can be a good option.

10. Cucumbers: Cucumbers, especially non-organic ones, may have pesticide residues on the skin.

It's essential to keep in mind that the Environmental Working Group (EWG) releases an annual "Dirty Dozen" list, highlighting fruits and vegetables with higher pesticide residues. You can use this list as a guide when deciding which produce items to prioritize as organic purchases. On the other hand, some fruits and vegetables have thicker skins or protective layers, making them less susceptible to pesticide penetration. These may include avocados, pineapples, and onions.

Ultimately, whether to buy organic or conventional produce depends on individual preferences, budget constraints, and health considerations. Washing and peeling fruits and vegetables can also help reduce pesticide residues, regardless of whether they are organic or conventionally grown.

Is Organic Food A Better Option?

The decision to choose organic or conventionally produced food depends on various factors, and opinions on this matter can vary. Here are some considerations to help you make an informed decision:

1. Pesticide Residues:

• Organic: Organic farming generally avoids synthetic pesticides, herbicides, and fertilizers. Choosing organic can reduce exposure to pesticide residues.
• Conventional: Conventionally grown produce may have pesticide residues, but these are typically within safety limits established by regulatory agencies. Washing and peeling can also help reduce residues.

2. Nutrient Content:

• Organic: Some studies suggest that certain organic fruits and vegetables may have higher levels of certain nutrients. However, the overall nutritional differences between organic and conventional produce are often small and may not be significant for most people.

3. Environmental Impact:

• Organic: Organic farming practices often focus on sustainability, soil health, and reduced environmental impact. This includes practices like crop rotation and avoiding synthetic chemicals.
• Conventional: Conventional farming may use synthetic inputs, which can contribute to soil degradation and environmental pollution. However, modern conventional agriculture also incorporates sustainable practices in some cases.

4. Cost:

• Organic: Organic food is often more expensive than conventionally grown counterparts due to higher production costs. This can be a limiting factor for some consumers.
• Conventional: Conventionally produced food is generally more affordable, making it more accessible to a broader population.

5. Taste and Appearance:

• Organic: Some people claim that organic produce tastes better or has a better texture. However, taste is subjective, and factors like freshness and variety also play a role.
• Conventional: Conventionally grown produce may look similar to organic and can be just as flavorful, depending on factors like ripeness and variety.

6. Availability and Variety:

• Organic: Availability of organic produce can vary depending on location. Some areas may have limited options.
• Conventional: Conventionally grown produce is widely available and comes in a diverse range of varieties.

7. GMOs:

• Organic: Organic standards typically prohibit the use of genetically modified organisms (GMOs).
• Conventional: Some conventionally grown crops may be genetically modified. If avoiding GMOs is a concern, choosing organic may be a preference.

Organic Stores in UAE

NRTC Fresh

Available on The App Store and Google App Store, www.nrtcfresh.com (04 320 8889).

elGrocer

Available on The App Store and Google App Store, www.elgrocer.com (04 441 8741).  

Ripe Market

Opening times vary. Various locations including Shoreline Building 7 and 8, Palm Jumeirah; Town Centre Jumeriah, Jumeirah 1; 8 A Street, Al Manara Street, www.ripeme.com.

BiOrganic

Open daily 10am-10pm. Times Square Centre, Sheikh Zayed Road, Al Quoz, www.biorganicstore.com (04 337 2199).

Emirates Bio Farm

Al Faqa, Al Ain, www.emiratesbiofarm.com (03 783 8422).

Farmers’ Market on The Terrace

Open Nov-May, Fri-Sat, 7am-1pm. Farmers’ Market on the Terrace, Bay Avenue Park, Business Bay, www.facebook.com/thefarmersmarketontheterrace.

milK & HONEY

Open 24 hours. Various locations including Shoreline Building 10, Palm Jumeirah; Emirates Hills (04 432 8686).

Greenheart Organic

Open Sat-Thu 10am-6pm. Arjan, Al Barsha South 2, www.greenheartuae.com (04 361 7010).

Farmers’ Market on The Terrace

Open Nov-May, Fri-Sat, 7am-1pm. Farmers’ Market on the Terrace, Bay Avenue Park, Business Bay, www.facebook.com/thefarmersmarketontheterrace.

In summary, both organic and conventional foods can be part of a healthy diet. The choice depends on individual priorities, including health concerns, environmental values, and budget considerations. It's essential to focus on overall dietary patterns, including consuming a variety of fruits, vegetables, and other nutrient-dense foods, regardless of their organic or conventional status.