FOE slams Krebs over organic food

Friends of the Earth today hit out at Sir John Krebs, chairman of the Government's Food Standards Agency, for telling the public that they were wasting their money if they think that the organic food that they buy is safer or more nutritious than conventionally grown food. His comments were due to be broadcast on BBC's Countryfile programme later this week and were widely covered in the press.

According to data published by the Government last year 33 per cent of fresh fruit and vegetables (732 samples) contained pesticide residues. And 70 per cent of conventionally grown carrots were found to contain pesticide residues including organophosphates which are currently being reviewed following concerns about their potential health effects.

"We are appalled that Sir John Krebs has launched this attack on organic food. Organic food avoids synthetic pesticides, the routine use of antibiotics and genetically modified ingredients. No-one knows what long term impact these may have on human health," said Friends of the Earth Real Food Campaigner, Sandra Bell. "If there is no problem with pesticides in conventionally grown food why does the Government advise people to wash and peel vegetables before giving them to children? The truth is that organic food is better for people and the environment. The Food Standards Agency should be promoting it, not rubbishing it."