Is Organic Worth The Price?

NBC30 Connecticut News, Staff
Published May 3, 2006

So is it worth it to pay the price or is it better to just settle for the same kind of produce that's always been purchased? NBC 30 found out. From milk and meat to fruits and veggies, more and more people are going organic. According to Consumer Reports nearly two-thirds of Americans bought organic food last year, up from half the year before. Linda York, a registered dietician at UConn Health Center said some fruits and vegetables retain more pesticides that other. A study by the Washington-based environmental working group said that cherries, strawberries, nectarines, imported grapes, red raspberries, peaches, pears, potatoes, spinach, celery, bell peppers and apples retained more pesticides. The study said not to bother with organic broccoli, asparagus or cauliflower. The pesticide levels are generally undetectable. York also said organic meats and milk are good investments. Organic foods generally cost more than conventional foods, in many cases 50 percent more. But some shoppers said the health benefits are priceless.