Organic food production is increasing at a rate of 20 percent per year, according to a CNN report. While the organic food market has grown, some experts say organic foods are not always a healthier option compared to conventional production. Nicole Whatley, Student Health Center dietician, said the Food and Drug Administration classifies organic food as those that have not been exposed to fertilizers, pesticides or other artificial substances. Whatley said organic foods offer no benefit or harm compared to conventional foods. “Conventional foods have a very small use of [pesticides or fertilizers],” she said. “The Food and Drug Administration won’t allow food with excess of those treatments.” Whatley said buying organic foods offer a lack of pesticides and fertilizers but are not healthier than the counter part. “[There are no] health benefits one way or another,” she said. “[People should] do it because of problems with the use of pesticides or hormones.” The FDA determines the criteria used for determining what foods are considered organic or conventional, Whatley said. “Little difference is in the taste or quality,” she said. “Although, maybe some can taste the difference.” Em LeBlanc, elementary and special education senior, said she buys organic food occasionally. “I really do not taste any difference between the two kinds of foods,” she said. LeBlanc also said she thinks eating organic food is better for the body and cleanses it out. “Processed foods, foods with dyes and artificial flavoring, can hurt the body and have a big impact on learning,” she said. “Eating all natural or organic foods help cleanse the body of all the artificial ingredients and can make a huge difference on your life.” Sarah Kaufman, English junior, said she buys food that will last the longest and taste the best. “I go to Whole Foods for vegetables and fruits because their fruits and vegetables last a long time,” she said. “I found that [their] fruits and vegetables last up to two weeks longer than the fruit stands.”
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