We’ve heard the argument and supporting evidence that claims organic food is no better for a person or the environment than food grown or raised using conventional farming methods. However, the debate is far from over. Peter Melchett of the Soil Association is taking defending the points made in the original article criticizing aspects of organic food and farmer. Instead, Melchett maintains it is the eco and health-friendly option when it comes to produce and meat consumption.

Is organic farming better for the environment?
Though organic farming is still a work-in-progress, supporters claim it still has significant environmental benefits. They say organic farming is still better for wildlife on the farms, as well as producing less dangerous wastes and carbon emissions, as well as lower pollution caused by sprays. Reports suggest organic farms have 30 per cent more wild species and 50 per cent higher number of those animals.

Is organic farming more sustainable?
Not only does Melchett say prior information claiming the growing of organic tomatoes takes twice the amount of energy is wrong, he also says it left out the very important point that a major benefit of organic farming is the storing of carbon in soil. This apparently reduces the climate change impact of organic food by anywhere from 12 to 80 per cent.

The association also says that 26 per cent less energy is used during organic farming as opposed to conventional farming and says the government believes organic farming is better for the environment.

Does organic farming use pesticides?
Under the Soil Association's guidelines, organic farmers may use only four pesticides (and only with permission) compared to the more than 300 pesticides used in conventional farming. Most organic farming does not require pesticides, but when it does, those used are either one containing rotenone and soft soap or others with simple chemicals such as copper compounds and sulphur. Rotenone and soft soap contain active ingredients that break down quickly in sunlight, while copper and sulphur occur naturally in soil already.

Last year only three percent of Soil Association members and two per cent of organic crops were sprayed.

Are conventional pesticide levels in food dangerous?
Melchett points out that more than 40 pesticides once approved for use have been banned or withdrawn in the past decade. Chemical "cocktails" are also not tested before pesticides are given the safe stamp of approval. A U.S. study recently found that children who switched from regular to organic food had no traces of pesticides in urine samples after just one day, however when they switched back, pesticides were once again found in urine.

Is organic farming healthier?
The Food Standards Agency actually says there is no difference in terms of food safety of organic and non-organic foods, however the Compassion in World Farming organization feels that animals under the Soil Association guidelines are raised in better conditions. Melchett also contends that animals are not smaller, nor do they suffer from more disease than conventionally-raised animals.

Does organic food contain more nutrients?
Vitamin C, calcium, magnesium, iron and antioxidants - all things you'll find higher levels of in organic food. Plus organic milk contains more Omega 3's, vitamin E, vitamin A and antioxidants than your regular run-of-the-mill milk. By consuming organic food you may also avoid unwanted additives such as hydrogenated fat, monosodium glutomate and artificial flavors and colors.

Is there a greater demand for organic food now than ever before?
The organic industry is one that is still growing - approximately 32 percent per year in fact. Three-quarters of parents buy organic baby food and parents and school officials are working to involve organic farms in the production of school lunches. 

It also turns out, costs isn't always the most important factor; even those in lower income brackets will go organic as much as possible despite the sometimes more expensive cost.

And despite claims of smaller crop yields for organic food, Melchett says long-term trials indicate that the yields of organic crops will be comparable to non-organic crops.

In the end it seems that there won't be a resolution to the organic vs. non-organic anytime soon. Each sides makes valid points and there does seem to be conflicting research. Regardless, we hope the discussion over the past two days has got you thinking about the issue (assuming you weren't thinking about it already that is) and has you thinking about the healthy food choices you make for yourself and your family.

» The Independent