The Ecology of Pizza - Why Organic Food is a Bargain

[rucky]

Wanted to share this article that appeared in the Mother Earth News some time ago. Very comprehensive look at organic vs. conventional foods...

studies have helped dispel common misconceptions about organic farming, such as the belief that organic farms are unproductive. According to the most comprehensive study to compare conventional and organic systems, organic farms produce yields comparable to those of conventional farms, and they consume far less energy and natural resources to do so. They also leave soils healthier for future generations.

Another myth is that organic farms are overrun by insects, but the data show otherwise. A survey of California tomato farms, for example, found that levels of pest damage in conventional and organic tomatoes were virtually identical. What organic farms had in greater abundance were predatory insects that ate the plant-eating bugs.

A third belief — that organic food is more expensive — is pretty much the truth. In some cases, organic prices are higher because of retail markups. Organic farms are usually smaller or more seasonal, so supermarkets have to purchase organic goods from more suppliers. But conventional growers can keep prices low by sheer volume. As the popularity of organic farming increases, supplies should become more reliable and retail prices more competitive.

more...

http://www.motherearthnews.com/Whole-Foods-and-Cooking/2006-06-01/The-Ecology-of-Pizza-Or-Why-Organic-Food-is-a-Bargain.aspx

[NotGivingUp]

1. many of us need to get back to the land and stop being corporate slaves.

we need to get rid of monsanto and eat good food again.

[Marblehead]

2. that is a great publication..

[Kolesar]

3. I find the sustainability of organic foods more compelling than the nutritional benefits

If that makes sense.