During a recent marketing trip I did something a bit reckless. (And I’m not talking about buying eggs without checking for broken shells.) I bought hydroponic strawberries without any knowledge of their nutritional or taste value. It’s hard not to miss hydroponic strawberry’s recent entry to the fruit section. How their rectangular container aptly displays plump berries in a shade of red that’s making tomatoes blush.
Hydroponic strawberries have piqued my curiosity because they are pricey, like organic berries, but look healthier. They don’t have the sad, bruised appearance of the organic variety with their tattered leaves and the occasional patch of cottony fuzz.
Organic defined
According to the USDA, foods labeled organic certify the wholesome methods they’ve been farmed. They are not doctored with pesticides, fertilizers and GMOs (Genetically Modified Organism). More natural growing methods are used like composts and mulch. Organic foods also have more antioxidants, Omega-3 fatty acids and less toxic metal, bacteria and pesticide residue.
While an outwardly perfect looking plum may look enticing, disappointment follows from biting into food’s version of an edible super ball. Organic pulled-from-healthy-soil foods do not last as long and aren’t as attractive, but they are natural, taste delicious, and nutritional stars.
Why choose organic strawberries
Typically I don’t succumb to how food looks. I’m keenly aware of our culture’s fascination with beauty is not aways warranted — installing a lot of artificial tricks to masquerade ho hum DNA.
Says registered dietician Eliza Savage, “Strawberries are number one on the EWG’s Dirty Dozen list, so when you’re shopping for this tasty, nutritious fruit, you’ll want to select an organic option (the elevated price is worth it)!”
Organic vs. hydroponic strawberries
Then why hydroponic? Unless you’re looking to create a dazzling tablescape with strawberries that Tess of the D’Urbervilles would salivate over, is it better to maintain your loyalty to organic berries? Savage thinks so. “Hydroponic is another way to reduce pesticide exposure, as these plants are grown without soil, which is usually treated, but the price tag may be even more inflated. While both are nutrient-packed options, I’d recommend choosing a USDA organic strawberry over a hydroponic version solely due to certification standards and price.”
In the end, natural trumps appearance. Could this be a life mantra? We think so.
