Organic Dairy

Most of us know the benefits of eating organic vegetables and organic meat but what about organic dairy?

In 2016, a meta-analysis by Newcastle University, published in the British Journal of Nutrition, confirmed that organic milk and meat contains lower levels of saturated fats and around 50% more beneficial omega-3 fatty acids than non-organic alternatives. The ratio of omega-6:omega-3 fatty acids is also much more in favour of the beneficial omega-3. These polyunsaturated fats cannot be synthesized by your body so must be consumed in your diet. Omega-3 is believed to play an important role in anti-inflammation, potentially reducing the risk of modern chronic conditions like heart disease, diabetes, arthritis, Alzheimer’s and some cancers.

Although low concentrations of both omega-3 and omega-6 are recommended for a healthy diet, limiting the intake of omega-6, thought to be pro-inflammatory, is recommended. This fatty acid is associated with the modern Western diet, found in things like grain-fed animal produce - particularly processed meats, vegetable oils and processed foods that contain them.

The review study also highlighted the difference in omega-3 levels particularly in organically produced beef but can be seen in products such as milk, cheese and butter.