Chapter 14, Problem 1QC

Do you buy organic foods or conventional foods when both are available? On what do you base your decision?

Summary Introduction

To review:

The basis on which people buy organic foods or conventional foods when both are available.

Introduction:

It is a widespread belief among people that organic food is more nutritious and safer for human consumption in comparison to conventionally grown food. However, most scientific studies find little or no difference in the nutritional value of organic and conventional foods. Studies on the safety of conventional food for human consumption are not conclusive. Organic food is more expensive due to high production costs, but organic farming is good for the environment. Conventional farming is cost efficient and gives a higher yield.

Explanation of Solution

As per industry experts, the organic foods industry is growing at a rate of about 9% (percent) per year. Given a choice between organic foods and conventional foods, most people choose organic food if they can afford it. It is because they believe that organic foods contain fewer pesticides, artificially induced hormones, and other harmful chemicals, which are otherwise used in conventional farming.

It is also falsely believed by some that organic food is more nutritious. Taken together, these reasons explain the growing popularity of organic food. However, this popularity is restricted to the economically stronger sections of the society. Moreover, organic food is not widely available. Many people still opt for conventionally grown food because of its cheaper price and easier availability. Moreover, its nutritional value is the same as organic food.

Conclusion

Therefore, it can be concluded that the choice between conventional and organic food is based on individual preferences, which are influenced by cost, availability, and perception.