Difference in the Concentration of Macro Elements between Organically and Conventionally Grown Vegetables

Abstract

Although the quality of organic crops has been intensively studied for over three decades, there is still a lack of conclusive data that can prove the superiority of organic crops over conventional ones. There is no doubt that the organic food is safer due to the lack of pesticide residues; however, it is still not entirely sure whether vegetables and fruits produced in this way are better in the context of nutritional values. The study of commonly used vegetables in the European diet was performed to evaluate the difference in concentration of macro nutrients such as Ca, Mg, Na, N, K and P between organic and conventional crops. Additionally, the soil analysis was performed on the material from two growing systems. The results showed that organically cultivated vegetables had generally a higher level of macro nutrients. Also, soil samples showed higher content of these elements in the organically treated soil. From all vegetables, the highest concentrations of macro elements were found in parsley leaves and celery roots.