Difference between organic and non-organic foods

Frankly, when it comes to food, healthy habits and overall wellness of our children, as mothers, we look for nothing but the best. I am very particular about my daughter’s nutrition and try to offer her as many healthy food options as possible.

Organic food has been gaining more and more popularity in recent times. I knew little about the difference between organic and non-organic foods until I discussed it with my cousin who is a nutritionist. It was an informative discussion on how to identify organic food and its health benefits, especially for toddlers.

It’s not difficult to identify organic food products. You just need to double-check the label for ingredients and certifications.

Difference 1: How it is Produced 

The primary difference between organic and non-organic food is the way they are produced. The production of non-organic food involves the use of multiple chemical fertilizers to promote plant growth and insecticides to control pests.

Whereas, Organic farms use plant extract like Pongamia / Lagundi as natural means of keeping pests away. The usage of natural compost and manure keeps the soil alive with organic matter like khaad, roots, leaves, insects, and earthworms. This process unlocks minerals and nutrients in the soil to make everything grow as Nature has always intended.

Difference 2: Strict guidelines for Certified Organic 

“Certified Organic” food products are defined by the strict guidelines of the National Program for Organic Production (NPOP). India has implemented NPOP, which defines “Certified Organic” food, as products that are grown naturally, without synthetic inputs or stimulations. These products also carry the Jaivik Bharat and India Organic Logos.

Certified Organic also means 95%+ organic ingredients. Remember, every product declaring ‘made from organic produce,’ may not actually qualify for organic, especially baby food products. There are only a few certified organic baby foods in the market. I switched to Nestle Ceregrow for my daughter after this revelation, which is the first certified organic baby food (for 2 to 5 years old) in India.

Difference 3: Health Effects

My nutritionist cousin also pointed out that chemicals used for ripening and preserving non-organic foods can have many side-effects, especially for the two to five-year-olds. Some of the prominent ones include low immunity, anaemia, hypersensitivity, asthma, and allergies. Certified Organic foods, on the other hand, are free from any artificial pesticides and preservatives. 

Difference 4: Environment-Friendly

“Certified Organic” fruits and vegetables are also environment-friendly. The pest control measures, soil enrichment and nutrient addition, all involve naturally occurring ingredients. Such fertilizers and pesticides easily decompose in the soil and do not pollute the soil, groundwater or air. Organic foods are made from foods produced at organic farms in a natural way with patience and care. 

There is no age limit as such to inculcate good values in your child, but it helps if you start early. Your choice of the food itself embeds the value of maintaining the harmony of nature. As they say, you have a choice! Choose wisely.