Given the significant increase in consumer interest in organic food products, there is a need to
determine to what extent there is a scientific basis for claims made for organic produce. Studies comparing foods
derived from organic and conventional growing systems were assessed for three key areas: nutritional value,
sensory quality, and food safety. It is evident from this assessment that there are few well-controlled studies that
are capable of making a valid comparison. With the possible exception of nitrate content, there is no strong
evidence that organic and conventional foods differ in concentrations of various nutrients. Considerations of the
impact of organic growing systems on nutrient bioavailability and nonnutrient components have received little
attention and are important directions for future research. While there are reports indicating that organic and
conventional fruits and vegetables may differ on a variety of sensory qualities, the findings are inconsistent. In
future studies, the possibility that typical organic distribution or harvesting systems may deliver products differing
in freshness or maturity should be evaluated. There is no evidence that organic foods may be more susceptible to
microbiological contamination than conventional foods. While it is likely that organically grown foods are lower
in pesticide residues, there has been very little documentation of residue levels.