Many people believe organically raised produce is safer than conventionally raised crops because of the lack of chemical spray residues on the fruit. However, what about differences in the nutritional quality of the fruit?

Researchers at the USDA and Rutgers University collected ‘Bluecrop’ blueberries grown in New Jersey on organic and conventional farms. Samples were taken from a number of farms in different locations, and fruit was analyzed for sugar levels, and antioxidant and flavonoid content. Overall the organically raised blueberries contained higher sugar, antioxidant, and flavonoid levels than the conventionally grown fruits -- sometimes as much as 50 percent higher.

For more information on this study, go to: Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry.