Top scientist scorns 'tastier' organic foods
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Thursday January 31 2008
And any aims to turn Ireland into an 'organic island' were also scorned yesterday by Dr Con O'Rourke, who said this would mean there could be no exports and there would need to be massive recycling.
Dr O'Rourke, a former senior member of agricultural body Teagasc and scientific journal editor, said substantial research had not shown any differences between organic and standard foods.
The Food Safety Authority of Ireland yesterday had an open debate on the attitudes and findings on organic food. Research from the body shows that less than one-third of people (32pc) surveyed believe organic food to be a healthier option while 15pc believe it to be "full of flavour and taste".
"Organic foods are often claimed to be more nutritious and to taste better," said Dr O'Rourke.
"However, this has to be regarded as a fiction since, to date, rigorous scientific evaluation has failed to show significant and consistent difficulties."
In addition, genetically modified (GM) foods are "no less safe" than conventional foods, with a 'GM-free' Ireland as unlikely as an 'organic Ireland', he said.
However, organic food consultant Siobhan Morris said the organic food market was worth €66m in Ireland last year -- up from €38m in 2003. She spoke of the benefits of organics in terms of animal welfare and said that there was an improved taste.
Organic milk was found to have up to 80pc more anti-oxidants while cereals and vegetables had up to 40pc more nutrients, she said.
Chef Darina Allen said the cost of organic foods depended on where they were bought, with supermarkets often more expensive than some farmers' markets.
Broadcaster and food consultant Clodagh McKenna, pictured above at the event, said children had to build up an understanding of food from early on.
