YOUR TEXAS AGRICULTURE MINUTE

Organic or Conventional?

By Gene Hall

Texas consumers have bountiful choices when it comes to fruits and vegetables. But are they making wise decisions – choosing between information and misinformation in the daily bombardment of food messages?

Organic, conventional, local and natural–consumers hear the buzzwords, but do they understand? Their decisions shape food supplies, and in turn, farming practices.

If cost matters, consumers turn to conventional sources. They are raised in larger quantities. Yes, pesticides are used, but fall within government safety guidelines.

If ultra-fresh is the factor and you’re willing to pay more, try organic or local.

The truth is any choice is good when it comes to fruits and vegetables. It’s important to remember that both organic and conventional are safe and that vegetables and fruits are an important part of a healthy diet.

I know mom wouldn’t have worried too much about organic or conventional or any other label. She wanted wholesome, nutritious food to feed six growing children. Eat more veggies she would say. Sound advice - no matter how our food is grown. 

The preceding commentary is brought to you by Texas Farm Bureau, the “Voice of Texas Agriculture.” Called “Your Texas Agriculture Minute,” TFB will issue thought-provoking editorials each week—via print and audio—to spark understanding of agriculture in the Lone Star State and its impact on each and every Texan.

You may read this week’s editorial below or listen to the audio version.

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