Nutritional value of organic food in children.
Details
Serval ID
serval:BIB_20FFAB3E9F01
Type
Article: article from journal or magazin.
Collection
Publications
Institution
Title
Nutritional value of organic food in children.
Journal
Nutrition research reviews
Working group(s)
Committee on Nutrition of the French Society of Paediatrics
ISSN
1475-2700 (Electronic)
ISSN-L
0954-4224
Publication state
In Press
Peer-reviewed
Oui
Language
english
Notes
Publication types: Journal Article ; Review
Publication Status: aheadofprint
Publication Status: aheadofprint
Abstract
In Europe, organic food must comply with specific regulations which do not include nutritional criteria. The ability of organic food to meet the nutritional needs of children is not assessed. This narrative review discusses the nutritional composition (macronutrients, micronutrients) of organic food compared to conventional products and its clinical relevance with a pediatric focus, and the health impact of these differences and of contaminants which interfere with metabolism. Other potential differences, particularly regarding the direct/indirect exposure to other contaminants in conventional food, are not addressed in this review. The composition of some organic food may differ from conventional food. Protein content was lower in cereals and eggs. A lower n-6:n-3 polyunsaturated fats (PUFA) ratio was observed in milk, meat and eggs. Long-chain PUFA and vitamin E may be higher in milk, meat, and fish, as some minerals and antioxidants (phenolic compounds, vitamin C) in fruits, vegetables, and starchy food and carotenoids in fruits and vegetables. Epidemiological studies suggest an association between organic diets and lower prevalence of childhood obesity, type 2 diabetes and metabolic syndrome, whereas the protective effect on allergy and cancer is controversial. Some organic food may have a better nutritional interest for children's diet than conventional food. Standardized studies comparing food composition and diet in children are needed. Considering the lower toxicologic risk and the sustainability of organic food, the Committee on Nutrition encourages the use of organic food, provided such food is affordable, alongside specific baby food which are subject to strict specific EU regulations.
Keywords
diet composition, food intake, health outcomes, nutritional content
Pubmed
Create date
03/03/2025 11:49
Last modification date
04/03/2025 7:56