Organic kiwis contain more health-promoting compounds than kiwis grown under conventional farming conditions, according to a new University of California study.

Specifically, researchers found that organic kiwis had significantly higher levels of polyphenols-the beneficial, disease-fighting properties found in a variety of foods such as grapes and berries. The organic kiwis also had higher overall antioxidant activity, as well as more ascorbic acid (vitamin C) and certain minerals, than their conventionally grown kiwi counterparts.

Other studies have shown organic produce to contain more nutrients, but this one is unique and more conclusive because the kiwis were grown under the same farming and environmental conditions, making for a better comparison.

Worldwide, certified organic foods are worth an estimated US $23-25 billion a year. The industry's annual growth of 19 percent a year makes organics the fastest-growing sector of the global food industry.
Source: Society of Chemical Industry Release, March 25, 2007

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