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A research review of 41 studies conducted by the University of California shows that on an average, organic produce contains 27% more vitamin C, 21% more iron, and 29% more magnesium compared with traditionally grown foods. While packaged organic foods like an organic cookie may have as many calories and grams of saturated fats as a non-organic cookie, produce crops like peaches and apples commonly treated with high concentrations of pesticides are less adulterated. Choosing organic food minimizes exposure to the harmful chemicals. Now, it cannot be denied that there is a debate about whether to go organic or not. In case you want to know more about the confusion about "organic or non organic," we suggest that you check our section on "Organic or Non Organic."
Call Local
Locally grown foods have also become a favorite with the consumers of late, and you can get in touch with the local family farms to buy freshly grown food. Local food has an inherent advantage over produce raised in factory farms, as the latter takes about four to seven days to reach the supermarket shelves. The products also travel an average of 1,500 miles before being sold, losing half the nutrients in transit. Locally grown food also tastes better for its freshness. You also have the choice of asking for varieties of fruits and vegetables, which would be difficult to find elsewhere. It also allows you to find out about the way the produce was grown. Freshness is the factor which has increased the popularity of these locally grown foods. This is evidenced in the growing "locally grown food" movement and is particularly strong in California as well as portions of the East Coast.
When we are talking of "going local," can you afford to ignore your kitchen garden? Maintaining a kitchen garden is a very good way of enjoying "fresh homegrown vegetables." If you have enough space, you may also consider planting a fruit tree or two. In fact "gardening" has dual benefits. You get to enjoy really fresh fruits and vegetables. Also, kitchen garden or not "gardening" on its own is a very healthy activity. It gives you good exercise, and can be a very "satisfying" activity if you have "green fingers."
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