Agricultural News
What are Common Misconceptions Between Organic and Conventional Farming?
Thu, 01 Sep 2011 14:33:48 CDT
There are often many misconceptions when it comes to organic agriculture versus conventional agriculture. In a blog on the Scientific American website, Christie Wilcox set out to discourage some common misconceptions and myths perceived by the public concerning organic agriculture. Organic food and beverages have come a long way over the past ten years making $26.7 billion in 2012.
Certified organic sales have been on the rise and have risen to almost $52 billion around the world even though organic foods can cost up to three times more than foods produced under conventional agriculture standards. Wilcox looks at three common myths that are often associated with organic farming.
The first myth Wilcox discusses is the understanding that organic farms do not use pesticides. In fact, there are actually over 20 chemicals commonly used while growing and processing organic crops. And all of these chemicals are approved by the U.S. Organic Standards. the second myth Wilcox takes on is the belief that organic foods are healthier. In comparisons between organic and conventional foods, there has been no evidence found of differences between the two. This includes a comparison of over 15 different vitamins , invluding vitamin C, beta-carotene, and calcium.
The third myth Wilcox addresses is the myth that organic farming is better for the environment. Many organic farmers apply the Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) toxin to their crops as it is one of the most widely used organic pesticides each year. However, many of the organic farms are against the use of Bt toxin in genetically modified crops.
Finally, Wilcox stresses that are no right or wrong answers when it comes to organic farming versus conventional farming. It is not a simply black and white issue. When it comes to consumers, Wilcox suggests doing your homework and finding out what you believe to be the positives and negatives of organic and conventional agriculture.
Click here to read the rest of Christie Wilcox's blog on organic versus conventional farming.
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