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By Sam Bess

As a professionally trained media spokesperson, I am able to translate the latest nutrition research into simple messages that consumers can understand. So says Kim Larson in a March 4 column in The Herald.

What are her media trained credentials? What is it about nutrition research that needs translation? Lets take a look at this article. The headline begins on a negative note followed by another negative comment that there are slight differences in nutrition not enough to support a purchasing decision in favor of organics. Strike two against organics. Who wouldnt prefer as she later points out food produced without synthetic pesticides, hormones, antibiotics, irradiation and genetically engineered methods. Not to mention food with systemically invasive herbicides and pesticides.

Dairy products are also suspect because of the use of antibiotics. This subject would lead one into the deceptive marketing practices by corporations wanting to make their foods look and sound like they are better than they are. Our government regulations are at fault for this problem.

Next the article enjoins us to believe that Choosing organic or conventionally grown foods is a personal choice. Just what are conventionally grown foods? Are they the ones labeled or marketed as natural? The article doesnt translate that nor simplify the information.

Current levels of pesticide residue are safe and far below what is deemed hazardous for environmental or human health. Really? How many years of residue ingestion are needed before hazardous buildup should be expected? Were pesticides systemic or topically applied?

The same can be asked about herbicides. Some herbicides are systemic and continue killing and pesticides, too, well into the growing and fruiting period. Simple washing will not remove those.

Although the author appears not to be opposed to organics, there seems to be no emphasis upon the real benefits of the extra dollar spent to avoid contaminants, and in support of the organics industry mission to feed us with safety assured.

Sam Bess lives in Stanwood.

The rest is here:

Column played down importance of organic food - The Daily Herald