queenbee wrote:
> Interesting there was a program on Australian television last night 
> which quoted a study that showed that, nutritionally, there was no 
> difference between organic and non organic food tested.  I believe it 
> would be the same for honey.
Same was done for honey with the same result.

Most impartial studies show little difference between organic or 
non-organic as far as nutrition, but there is some truth to pesticide 
residue being greater on the surface of some non-organic fruits and 
veggies, even though it is in ppb. Pesticides were also found on 
organic, just there were more incidences of it on non-organic.

You should wash them no matter where they come from. The problem is, if 
there is bacterial contamination, you are out of luck unless you cook it.

Interesting that the recent spinach problem came from an organic grower. 
The field was not yet certified organic but looked like it was being 
primed for that. That technicality has let the organic movement off the 
hook for now, but there will be future outbreaks as the amount of 
organic produce increases. Can't help it. Just think of what some use 
for fertilizer. The US Navy banned purchase of veggies from some Asian 
countries back in the 1960s because of their use of "night soil". But 
animals other than man can contribute to soil pathogens that can cause harm.

Here is the report on what has been found to date with spinach so you 
can judge.

http://www.kansascity.com/mld/kansascity/news/nation/16963687.htm

I have had personal experience with this problem. An acquaintance grew 
their own veggies organically (they wanted only healthy, natural 
produce) and their baby picked up a soil born pathogen which disabled 
him mentally for life. Could have used pesticides and same would have 
happened. I see no cause and effect either way. On these sorts of 
incidences, you hear nothing from the organic movement other than a lot 
of technicality covering of tails, such as with the spinach scandal.

Truth is, it can happen to the best of people, no matter what their 
method. You are not safer or healthier if it says organic on the label. 
Only poorer.

Bill Truesdell
Bath, Maine

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