Kindergarten in a Vegetable Garden (photo courtesy of Library of Congress, circa 1899?)

On April 2nd we posted an item about research that showed organically grown kiwis were more nutritious than those that were grown in the usual way. The organic kiwi was found to have significantly more polyphenols - the healthy compounds found in red wine and coloured berries. It also had higher levels of antioxidants and vitamin C. There was speculation that pesticides might be inhibiting the development of nutrients.

Now scientists in Britain, France and Poland have examined organic carrots, apples, peaches and potatoes. They found that the organic fruits and vegetables have greater concentrations of vitamin C and chemicals that protect against heart attacks and cancer than non-organic produce.

Dr. Kirsten Brandt of Newcastle University, which led the research said ".. it's extremely difficult to measure the health benefit in any food, but we can say that if you eat 400 grams of fruit and vegetables per day you would get 20% more nutrients in organic food."

Rarely do we hear a denial of the ecological benefits of organic farming. So much for those who claim there's no proof that eating organic produce is healthier.

To read a thorough article on the scientists' findings in Britain's Independent go to: It's not just a fad - organic food is better for you, say scientists